ICAR-CIARI Marks 47th Foundation Day with Focus on Innovation and Sustainability in Island Agriculture

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI) celebrated its 47th Foundation Day at the Dr. T.R. Dutta Conference Hall on June 24, 2024. The event was marked by reflections on past achievements and discussions on future agricultural strategies tailored to the unique challenges of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Dr. C. Sivaperuman, Officer-in-Charge of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in Port Blair, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He commended the institute for its dedication to addressing the agricultural needs of the islands, highlighting significant contributions in breed registration, documentation, and the development of innovative strategies.

Dr. D.R. Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Bihar Agricultural University, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the distinct agricultural challenges faced by the islands. He noted that limited land availability, unique climate conditions, soil fertility issues, and pest and disease pressures require specialized approaches. Dr. Singh urged ICAR-CIARI to concentrate on producing high-quality planting materials and to promote the cultivation of high-value crops such as spices, orchids, and plantation crops.

He also underscored the importance of protected cultivation methods for crops like tomatoes, brinjal, cucumbers, okra, chilies, beans, cabbage, pumpkin, bitter gourd, and radish. Additionally, he stressed the significance of the Integrated Farming System and the adoption of modern technologies such as Geographical Indication (GI), digital marketing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to ensure sustainable agricultural development in the islands.

Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, presented the institute's achievements over the past year. Notable milestones included the inauguration of the administrative building of ICAR-KVK in North and Middle Andaman and the introduction of a fish aggregate device at Minicoy. He also highlighted the scientific contributions of the institute's researchers, including publications in high-impact journals, the granting of patents, and the commercialization of technologies.

The event was a testament to ICAR-CIARI's ongoing commitment to advancing agricultural research and development in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, ensuring that the institute continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the region's agricultural productivity and sustainability.