Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India visited ICAR-CCARI, Goa

    Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje visited ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa on 29^th September 2021. Hon’ble Minister was welcomed by ICAR staff at the exhibition where all the innovative technologies of the Institute and KVK were showcased. During the exhibition, agricultural inputs like coconut climbing machines, vegetable seeds of improved varieties, etc. were distributed to the women farmers at the hands of the Hon’ble Minister. On the occasion, she appreciated the achievements and innovations of the Institute and complimented the team of ICAR-CCARI and KVK for addressing the challenges of the operating environment spread over 9 coastal states and 2 UTs covering 75 districts. Women farmers adopting integrated farming systems and vegetable cultivation interacted with Sushri Shobha Karandlaje and expressed their gratitude towards the technological backstopping, training imparted and agricultural inputs given by the ICAR and KVK. A tree plantation was done by Minister which was followed by a field visit to the Livestock Farms and Fodder Museum. Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI presented in brief the achievements of the Institute through a presentation. He highlighted a need to establish an office of National Seed Corporation in the State of Goa to develop a seed chain for providing timely quality seed to the farmers in required quantity to achieve the goal of doubling farmers’ income and Hon’ble Minister asked to submit the proposal for the same. Shri. Kuldeep Singh Gangar, Secretary (Ag.), Govt. of Goa, Dr. Pratibha, OSD to Chief Minister of Goa, Shri. K. N. Verma, Director, MIDH, Mr. Nevil Alphonso, Director, Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa, representatives from the State line Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services and Fisheries, Scientists, officers and staff of the Institute and KVK, North Goa attended the program. Dr. Maneesha SR coordinated the event and proposed a vote of thanks.