ICAR-CCARI and RARS Address Challenges Faced by SC Farmers in Coastal Ecosystems

The ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI), Goa, joined hands with the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Kumarakom, to organize a farmer-scientist interface. This collaborative endeavor, held at Kumarakom, marks a pivotal moment in addressing the challenges faced by farmers in the coastal ecosystem, particularly those belonging to the Scheduled Caste community.

Dr Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI

Dr Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, spearheaded the event, shedding light on the intricacies of coastal farming and the innovative technologies developed by the institute to mitigate associated challenges. Accompanying Dr Kumar was Dr Sheeba Rebecca Isaac, the Associate Director of Research at RARS Kumarakom, whose presence further enriched the programme.

The event also witnessed interactive sessions, where farmers shared the problems they encountered in their farming practices. The scientists from CCARI and RARS offered expert guidance and tailored recommendations to address specific problems faced by them. Moreover, recognizing the crucial role of access to quality inputs, agricultural essentials such as grafts of horticultural crops, seeds, and biocontrol agents were distributed among the participating farmers. 

Participation of 32 SC Farmers

A notable aspect of the event was the inclusive participation of 32 Scheduled Caste farmers from agriculture and allied sectors. Their active engagement not only showcased their eagerness for knowledge and improvement but also underscored the importance of equitable access to resources and opportunities in agricultural development.