The ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI) in Goa celebrated its 35th Foundation Day on April 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone in its illustrious journey. The commemorative event witnessed the presence of Dr. Gurbachan Singh, Former Chairman of the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB) and Chairman of the Gurbachan Singh Foundation for Research, Education, and Development (GSFRED) as the Chief Guest.
Govindaraju N.S., IAS, Controller of the Human Space Flight Center, Bengaluru, Prof. M.K. Janarthan, Chairperson of the Goa State Research Foundation, Dr. V.S. Korikanthimath, former Director of ICAR-CCARI, Goa, and Dr. N.P. Singh, Ex-Director of ICAR-CCARI, Goa graced the occasion as Guests of Honour.
Dr. Gurbachan Singh, in his address, commended the institute’s achievements and urged scientists to focus on critical areas such as rainwater harvesting, integrated farming systems, soil erosion, and soil salinity management. He emphasised the importance of harnessing the coastal region’s biodiversity sustainably and advocated for the integrated use of organic and inorganic agrochemicals for pest and disease management.
Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director of ICAR-CCARI, Goa, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guests and highlighted the institute’s notable accomplishments over the past year. Dr. V.S. Korikanthimath underscored the importance of forging collaborations with institutions along the coastal area to broaden the institute’s reach.
Dr. N.P. Singh praised the institute’s staff for their exemplary work and emphasised the significance of Arecanut-based farming systems for agricultural sustainability. Prof. M.K. Janarthanam committed to facilitating collaborations with institutes in coastal areas to extend ICAR-CCARI’s presence throughout the coastal region of India.
Govindaraju N.S. commended the institute’s diverse research initiatives in coastal agriculture and applauded its efforts to mainstream marginalised sections of society through hands-on agricultural practices.
In recognition of their invaluable contributions, scientific, technical, administrative, skilled support, project staff, and progressive farmers were honoured and felicitated during the ceremony.
