October 6 & 8, 2026 · Kavaratti and Agatti, Lakshadweep

ICAR-IISR Conducts Training Programmes for Farmers in Lakshadweep

ICAR – Indian Institute of Spices Research, in collaboration with KVK and the Department of Agriculture, Lakshadweep, organized Training-cum-Demonstration Programmes at Kavaratti on October 6 and Agatti on October 8, 2026, under the institute's Tribal Sub-Plan activities.

At Kavaratti, the programme was coordinated by Dr. P. N. Ananth, Principal Scientist and Head, KVK-Lakshadweep, with the participation of Dr. Abhishek Das, SMS (Soil Science), and Dr. Ansul Duhan, SMS (Vegetable Science), KVK-Lakshadweep. Dr. Lijo Thomas, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IISR, delivered the technical session on scientific cultivation of ginger and turmeric as intercrops in coconut gardens, and Dr. Shameena Beegum P. P., Senior Scientist, ICAR-IISR, spoke on post-harvest management, processing and value addition. The sessions and demonstrations also covered vermicompost production and sustainable agricultural practices.

At Agatti, the programme was conducted with the support of the Department of Agriculture, Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Shri Mandip Kumar, DANICS, Deputy Collector, Agatti, was the Chief Guest. Dr. Lijo Thomas and Dr. Shameena Beegum P. P., along with Dr. Abhishek Das and Dr. Ansul Duhan, led the technical sessions and demonstrations. Mrs. Muneera, Agricultural Demonstrator, Agatti, supported the programme.

A total of 55 farmers participated in the trainings across the two islands. Field visits were also conducted to interact with farmers, assess existing agricultural practices and identify opportunities for further technical support and technology dissemination.