Training porgramme on package of practices for cultivation of Khola chillies organized at Gawal Khola,  Cancona by ICAR-CCARI under the ST

    A one-day farmers’ training programme was organized by ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI) at Gawali Khoal, Canacona, South Goa on 04 February 2026. The programme was conducted under the Scheduled Tribal Plan (STP) with the objective of enhancing the livelihood of Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers.Dr. Raghunandan, Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding), ICAR-CCARI, interacted with the farmers on seed production and quality parameters. He also emphasized proper seed storage conditions to ensure maximum seed germination. Mr. Omar de Souza, Technical Officer, ICAR-CCARI, delivered a lecture on nursery management of chillies and production of quality seedlings. He further highlighted the importance of seed treatment in chillies to prevent pests and diseases at the early stages of crop growth.Dr. Akula Chinapolaiah, Senior Scientist (Spices, Plantation, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants), ICAR-CCARI, explained the detailed package of practices for Khola chilli cultivation. He also stressed the importance of organic vegetable cultivation to fetch premium prices in the market. Dr. Sanjay M. Bandi conducted a session on pest and disease management in Khola chillies and demonstrated the use of yellow sticky traps to reduce pest incidence and minimize pesticide application. He also emphasized intercropping with marigold to reduce pest infestation in the main crop.Later, farm inputs such as yellow sticky traps and azadirachtin were distributed to the beneficiaries. A total of 25 ST women farmers participated in the programme and benefited from the training. The programme was successfully coordinated by Dr. Raghunandan, Dr. Sanjay M. Bandi, Dr. Akula Chinapolaiah, and Mr. Omar de Souza. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Shanu G. Velip.