The ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru in collaboration with ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Lakshadweep, ICAR-CMFRI, KICPCoS Farmer Producer Organization and the Department of Agriculture, Union Territory of Lakshadweep Administration (UTLA) conducted a one-day training cum workshop titled " The Potential of Soilless Media for Vegetable Cultivation in Lakshadweep Islands’, at Kavaratti Island.The workshop was specifically designed to address the unique agronomic challenges faced by the Lakshadweep Islands and to promote the adoption of sustainable vegetable production techniques amongst the local population.
Dr. P.N. Ananth, Principal Scientist and Head of KVK-Lakshadweep inaugurated the programme and briefed about the critical importance and increasing relevance of soilless cultivation methods and growing media in the island’s distinct ecosystem. Mr. Rakesh Kumar, Director of Agriculture, UTLA, delivered a felicitation address, advocating for progressive agricultural practices tailored to the environmental sensitivities and soil conditions unique to Lakshadweep islands.
Dr. G. Selvakumar, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIHR delivered an insightful presentation on "Arka Fermented Cocopeat and Household Composting Practices for Soilless Vegetable Cultivation." Dr. D. Kalaivanan, Senior Scientist, ICAR-IIHR discussed the practicalities and advantages of "Soilless Vegetable Cultivation" in resource-constrained settings such as those found in Lakshadweep. Both experts conducted a method demonstration on preparation of Arka Fermented Cocopeat using locally available coirpith. The workshop was attended by forty-seven participants from the Lakshadweep Islands. The event wrapped up an interactive session on different dimensions of cocopeat preparation and utilization for the containerized growing of vegetable, thereby paving the way for a successful collaboration between the institutions for enhancing the availability of locally grown vegetables in the Lakshadweep islands.
