ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa commemorated National Farmer Day

 

    On December 23, 2023, ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, and ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, North Goa, jointly organized National Farmers Day at Mayem village with the primary aim of recognizing and valuing the farmers' contribution to the socio-economic progress of the country. This day is observed to honor and pay tribute to the farmers, who are considered the nation's backbone. Mrs. Suphala Y Copdekar, Deputy Sarpanch, Mayem Gram panchayat, was the Chief Guest of the function. She enlightens that the farmers' issues in details, encompassing the acquisition of critical inputs, marketing, and post-harvest operations. Farmers cannot generate sufficient income due to high labor costs; they encounter challenges in mechanization due to land fragmentation and continue to rely on conventional agricultural methods, which degrade the land quality and incur high charges and low productivity. Senior Scientist and Head Dr. N. Bommayasamy appreciated the farmers' contribution in expanding the national economy. He emphasized that by implementing modern technology, farmers' incomes can be increased, and their standard of living can be raised. He assured the farmers that ICAR-CCARI & KVK would lend all possible and untiring support to farmers who need it. Mr. HRC Prabhu, SMS (Plant Protection), expressed gratitude for the farmers' consistent participation in achieving the objective of national food security. He urged everyone to spread the wisdom of the Swachhata mission and contribute to building a clean and prosperous India. Farmers demand a long-term reorientation of agri-food systems to boost farm earnings and improve access to safe and nutritious food. Fifty-two farmers and farm women participated in the function. As an integral component of the program, ICAR-KVK and CCARI honored the five farmers with mementos and citations for their consistent support and for showcasing the modern technologies in their field. Mr. Vishwajeet Prajapati, Technical officer proposed the vote of thanks, and Mr. Rahul Kulkarni, Asst Chief Technical Officer welcomed the gatherings earlier.