Ms. Shobha Karandlaje, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare visited Amini and Agatti Islands, Lakshadweep on 5th-6th March 2024, to review agricultural activities in the region, coordinated by the UT Administration of Lakshadweep and ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi.
The Minister interacted with the farmers, self-help groups, and young entrepreneurs. She distributed Soil Health Cards arranged by the ICAR-KVK to renew the organic status of the Union Territory. Ms. Karandlaje instructed the Administration to work with ICAR institutions to find organic solutions to control Whitefly, reducing coconut production. She also urged the farmers to utilize Central Government development schemes and praised the islands’ organic status, recognizing the local community’s dedication to organic practices.
Later, Ms. Shobha distributed vegetable seedlings to farmers and appreciated the collaborative efforts of the organizations in promoting vegetable cultivation in the islands. Farmers expressed concerns about Whitefly infestation and inquired about organic control methods during the programme.
The interaction was attended by all staff from the Department of Agriculture and ICAR-KVK.
Read more: https://icar.org.in/union-minister-state-and-farmers-welfare-interacts-farmers-lakshadweep
