Farmer- Scientist Interface at Udupi, Coastal Karnataka under SCSP

 

    A Farmer-Scientist Interface and Input Distribution Programme was held on 10 September 2025, at Kodi Village in Udupi district, Karnataka, under the SCSP scheme. The programme was organized by ICAR-CCARI in collaboration with ICAR-KVK, Brahmavara, and the Udupi Kinara FFPO. A total of 15 farmers, including 10 women participated in the programme. Dr. Sadananda Acharya (ICAR-KVK) welcomed participants and outlined the village's key farming activities such as cage culture, mussel and pearl oyster farming, and coconut and vegetable cultivation. Dr. Akula Chinapolaiah, Sr. Scientist (ICAR-CCARI, Goa) delivered an informative session on improved practices for cashew and arecanut plantations, while Dr. Sreekanth G.B. Sr. Scientist (ICAR-CCARI, Goa) highlighted sustainable fisheries practices, focusing on multi-species cage culture and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). Inputs including multipurpose barrels, arecanut (Mangala) and cashew (Goa-4) plants, trolleys, traps, grow bags, and vermicompost were distributed to promote diversified livelihoods. Farmers also requested support for jasmine cultivation, freshwater pearl oyster and ornamental fish farming, backyard poultry, and cage and mussel culture. The programme aimed to strengthen integrated farming systems and ensure sustainable income, with farmers expressing gratitude and willingness to adopt scientific practices. The event was coordinated by Dr. Sreekanth G.B., Dr. Acharya, Dr. Chinapolaiah, and Mr. Mrudul Pendurkar.