Awareness training-cum-input distribution programme on horticulture crops under SCSP organized by ICAR-CCARI at Sullia, Dakshina Kannada (Karnataka)

 

    The ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (CCARI), Goa, organized one day awareness training and input distribution program focused on coastal horticulture crops under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan held on October 8, 2025, at Sullia in the Dakshina Kannada coastal district of Karnataka. Dr.  Manjesh G. N., scientist, ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur, welcomed the farmers, officials from various departments, and scientists. During the inaugural address, Shri Pramod C.M., Senior Assistant Director of Horticulture, Sullia, encouraged the farmers to consider oil palm as an alternative and profitable crop in areas severely affected by Yellow Leaf Disease (YLD) in arecanut plants, emphasizing its potential for sustainable income and livelihood.  Dr. Akula Chinapolaiah, Senior Scientist, ICAR-CCARI, Goa, provided an overview of the institute’s activities and achievements, as well as new technologies available to support farmers. He also highlighted the benefits of intercrops in plantation crops as a means to generate additional income for growers. Dr. Manjesh G. N. presented a package of practices for cashew nut cultivation and post-harvest management. Shri Omar de Souza, Technical Officer at ICAR-CCARI, Goa, stressed the importance of high-quality planting materials for spices to achieve good yields. Dr. Vijetha, Assistant Horticulture Officer, Sullia, informed the farmers about the available schemes for promoting horticulture crops and the custom hiring of machinery for registered societies or Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Later on, agricultural inputs such as tarpaulin sheets, pruning saws, secateurs, rose cans, vermicompost and cashew grafts (Goa Cashew 5) were distributed to 25 beneficiaries from the scheduled caste community. The event was graced by Shri Arabanna, Assistant Horticulture Officer, Sullia, Shri Rajanna, Executive Officer of the Taluk Panchayat Sullia, and Shri Nandaraj, President of AVVS, Sullia. The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Manjesh G. N.