A Field Day on Salt Tolerant Paddy at Torse, Pernem, North Goa

 

    A field day on salt-tolerant paddy varieties was organized by ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, at Torse village, Pernem, on 26 September 2025, with the objective of promoting awareness and encouraging the adoption of salt-tolerant paddy varieties among local farmers. Shri Ranjit Mhapsekar, Zonal Agriculture Officer, Pernem, briefed the Swayampurna Goa program on assistance for farm mechanization, high-yield and certified seeds, fencing, community farming, and revitalization of Khazan lands, among other initiatives, and facilitated the exchange of practical knowledge and valuable feedback from the local paddy growers. Dr. N. Bommayasamy, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK, North Goa, briefly described about the program. He emphasized the importance of promoting salt-tolerant paddy cultivars, particularly in the Khazan areas. These cultivars help address soil salinity and waterlogging, which are common in coastal regions, making it possible to restore agriculture in challenging conditions. Dr. Shripad Bhat, Senior Scientist (Agrl. Economics), ICAR-CCARI, Goa spoke about the benefits of growing salt-tolerant paddy varieties Goa Dhan-4 and Goa Dhan-5. He explained that these varieties are more profitable than traditional ones, as they give better yields and require less investment. This makes them a good option for small and marginal farmers, especially in Goa's conditions.

    Shri Gopal Hari Naik and Shri Shivram Tandel progressive farmers shared their field-level experiences with salt-tolerant paddy cultivation. Earlier the programme commenced with a welcome address delivered by Shri Rahul Kumar, SMS (Agronomy), ICAR–KVK, North Goa. He also briefed the special features and agronomic advantages of the salt-tolerant paddy varieties Goa Dhan-4 and Goa Dhan-5. He elaborated on the general agricultural practices suitable for cultivating these varieties, offering technical insights aimed at enhancing productivity under saline conditions. It witnessed the active participation of 32 farmers and farm women, including 24 male and 8 female, along with 8 extension officials. The field day concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Nivya K.R., SMS (Floriculture & Landscaping), ICAR-KVK, North Goa. The program was coordinated by Shri Rahul Kumar, Dr. N. Bommayasamy, Dr Shripad Bhat, Dr. Nivya KR, and Shri Aishwar Kumar Tiwari.