ICAR CCARI organized a Training and Input Distribution Programme on INM in GI-Certified Khola Chilli

 

    The ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR–CCARI), Old Goa, organized a one-day Training and Input Distribution Programme on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) in GI-certified Khola Chilli on 12th June 2025 at Khola village, Canacona, South Goa. Conducted under the Scheduled Tribe Component of ICAR, the programme aimed to enhance sustainable farming practices and improve productivity of this traditional and valuable Geographical Indication (GI) crop of Goa.

    The event witnessed active participation from 60 Scheduled Tribe women farmers, all engaged in Khola chilli cultivation. The training focused on the promotion of Phospho-rich Organic Manure (Phospho Urja) as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers, with emphasis on improving soil health and enhancing crop performance.

    The technical session was conducted by Shri Manish Patel, Technician (Natural Resource Management Section), ICAR-CCARI. He provided in-depth guidance on the use of Phospho Urja, covering its benefits, dosage recommendations and  application methods.

    During the interactive session, farmers shared key issues in Khola chilli cultivation, such as low yields, leaf yellowing (nutrient deficiency or disease), and root and fruit base pest damage. Shri Patel addressed these challenges by highlighting the importance of balanced nutrient application and use of organic inputs for integrated pest and disease management.

    To facilitate field-level implementation, 600 kg of Phospho Urja was distributed among the participating farmers.

    The programme was efficiently coordinated by a multidisciplinary team from ICAR-CCARI, including Dr. Gopal Ramdas Mahajan, Dr. Raghunandan K., Shri Vinod Ubarhande, Shri Omar De Souza, and Shri Manish Patel.

    This initiative is a significant step towards empowering tribal women farmers and promoting sustainable, GI-based agricultural development in Goa.