Field visit and Interaction with progressive farmers of Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts of Maharashtra

    A field visit cum interaction with progressive farmers of Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts of Maharashtra was organized from 1st to 3rd March 2025. Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, and Dr. S. K. Pandey, Ex-Director, ICAR-CPRI, Shimla, visited various progressive farms and KVK to assess and provide scientific insights for improving agricultural and aquacultural productivity in coastal regions. During the visit, the team explored an Ornamental Fish Unit owned by Mr Rajesh Salgaonkar, an Oyster Mushroom farm owned by Mr Yogesh Desai and a Mango farm owned by Mr Dhanajay Gadekar in Sindhudurg district. Also, they visited a shrimp farm at Waravade village in Ratnagiri district, owned by Mr. Santosh Mandavkar. They also visited a mango farm in Gavkhadi village, owned by Mr Omkar Ranade, where multiple mango varieties, including Alphonso, are cultivated. Dr. Parveen Kumar and Dr. S. K. Pandey shared valuable guidance and suggestions at each location, aiming to improve farming techniques and enhance productivity.

    A visit was conducted to KVK, Kirlos, where Mr. Balkrishna Gavde, KVK In-Charge, and his team showcased various ongoing research activities. KVK Kirlos has been instrumental in providing infrastructure for artisanal farmers, leading to the development of 18 value-added products from mango, kokum, and other produce, contributing to the livelihood enhancement‌ of farmers. The visit provided a comprehensive overview of the agricultural and historical aspects of the region while fostering scientific discussions for future improvements. The institute is committed to the development of agriculture and allied sections. The institute assured all scientific and technical support to the farmers for the development of the agriculture in the coastal region of Maharashtra. The farmers expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the initiative of ICAR-CCARI. The event was coordinated by Shri Trivesh Mayekar and Dr. Sreekanth G. B. (Scientists at ICAR-CCARI), along with Mr. Harshvardhan Shetye (Young Professional - I) and Dr .Suyash patil,RA,ABI,ICAR-CCARI.