Port Blair, Feb 13: The ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair is organizing Regional Agricultural Fair (Southern Region) on the theme “Sustainable Agriculture through Integrated Farming System” in association with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration at its sports ground, Garacharma Complex from 15th to 17th February 2018. The program is financially supported by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India along with the ICAR, New Delhi.

This will provide a platform for technology sharing between the researchers, development department, farmers and the others stakeholders representing from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and UTs of Pondicherry, Lakshadweep, as well as Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It will also promote exchange of ideas among various states of this region in order to pave the way for better transfer of technologies applicable to the region and to speed up the public private participation and help up-gradation of knowledge and skills of farmers.

Besides, school and college children will also get an opportunity to visit and interact with the Scientists and inculcate scientific temperament. More than 1200 farmers inclusive of other stake holders are expected to participate during the event on each day.

The mela will have stalls representing the states and UTs of Southern Region, Self Help Group, Bankers, NGOs, Input suppliers, ICAR-CIARI and KVKs, showcasing their activities for the benefit of the stakeholders.  Beside conduct of ‘Ek Mulakat Vaigyanik aur Kisanon Ke Saath’, Scientist farmer’s interaction, screening of movies on technologies for livelihood in agriculture and allied fields, display of innovative products, interface meetings on organic farming, value addition in coconuts and fruits, food processing, farm machinery, mobile science exhibition, etc.

The conduct of live stock, flower, innovative products / process show, display of ethnic food and culture by Nicobaris and Karen communities besides educational cultural evening will be attraction of the mela.

Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh Ji has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest and will inaugurate the RAF at 11.00 am on 15th Feb, 2018.  Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Andaman & Nicobar Islands shall be the Guests of Honour along with Dr. A. K. Singh, Deputy Director General (HS), ICAR, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi.