Exposure visit and input distribution to ST farmers from Cotigao, South Goa under TSP
Exposure visit and input distribution to ST farmers from Cotigao, South Goa under TSP
An exposure visit and input distribution programme was organized under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) of the Government of India on 05th December 2025 at ICAR-CCARI, Goa. The programme aimed to promote inclusive development and provide livelihood support to Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers through technological exposure and input assistance. A total of 25 Scheduled Tribe (ST) women beneficiaries from Cotigao village, Canacona, South Goa actively participated in the programme. During the exposure visit, the participants were introduced to the Fisheries Farm section, where they were taken through the various freshwater fish ponds and given practical insights into scientific freshwater fish farming. Demonstrations covered the principles of polyculture, focusing on Indian Major Carps (IMC), Asian seabass, tilapia, and their compatibility under integrated farming systems. The beneficiaries gained hands-on understanding of pond management, stocking strategies, and species-specific culture methods. The beneficiaries also learned about integrated duck–cum–fish cage culture, highlighting how nutrient recycling and space-efficient cage farming can enhance productivity. Additionally, they were oriented to the floating crab barrel culture system, an innovative low-cost method suitable for coastal and estuarine regions. These demonstrations provided hands-on knowledge of species selection, feeding, maintenance, and system management.
As part of livelihood and farm-resource enhancement, essential agricultural and aquaculture-related inputs—including arecanut saplings, black pepper saplings, Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM), and vermicompost—were distributed to all participants. The programme strengthened the beneficiaries’ technical knowledge, encouraged adoption of improved farming practices, and supported long-term income generation opportunities for the tribal community of Cotigao. The programme was coordinated by Shri Trivesh Mayekar, Scientist (FGB), Mr Shashi Vishwakarma, Senior Technical Officer (Soil Science), Dr. Sreekanth G. B., Senior Scientist (FRM), Mr Daksh Raikar and Mr. Harshvardhan Shetye, Young Professionals (Fisheries Science).