The ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute commemorated the 79th Independence Day with immense enthusiasm and joy at its Garacharma campus, as well as at KVK South Andaman, KVK North and Middle Andaman, KVK Nicobar, and the Regional Station in Minicoy. Approximately 250 staff members and their families attended the flag hoisting ceremony. The celebrations began with the National Flag being raised by Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, the Director of ICAR-CIARI, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. In his address, the Director noted that 50% of India's population relies directly or indirectly on agriculture and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research plays a vital role in promoting agricultural progress and ensuring food security across the nation. He highlighted the institute's achievements, which include the granting of six patents and the commercialization of five technologies this year, featuring innovations such as Dweep Tickure, Dweep leaf separator, Dweep Cinn Rub, Dweep MAS Poultry feed, and Dweep Go Fly.
He also emphasized that 18 varieties developed by the institute have been recommended for release by the UT subcommittee on seed (SVRC), with Malabar tamarind and Indian Bay leaf being released for the first time in the country. During this time, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Food Processing visited the Institute and commended the efforts made by the Institute towards agricultural development in the Island. Additionally, the Institute organized a Kisam Mela along with three workshops and seminars, namely: Scope and Challenges of Natural Farming, Organic/Natural Farming, and Harnessing the Potential of Agro-Ecotourism.
He also presented a summary of the research publication, highlighting that 20 papers have been released with a NAAS rating of 6 or above. During this period, our Institute's scientist, Dr. T. Sujatha, I/c ITMU, received an appreciation certificate from DG, ICAR, while Dr. K. Saravanan was honored with the Young Scientist Award from the College of Fisheries, Mangalore, and Dr. J. Praveenraj received the Dr. C.V. Kulkarni Award from ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai.He further motivated the scientists to pursue excellence in their endeavors to improve the welfare of the farming community.
A cultural program was organized by CARIEWA (Central Island Agricultural Research Institute Employees Welfare Associations) where different performances and companions were conducted and Prizes were distributed to the winners and participants.