A training programme on “Hybridization techniques and quality planting material production in coconut” was conducted, from 13 to 15 October 2025, at ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod. The training programme was inaugurated by Dr. Anitha Karun, Former Director, ICAR-CPCRI and Senior Consultant, Jain Irrigation Systems, who emphasized the importance of such programmes in strengthening the coconut sector and urged for their regular conduct. Dr. Vinayaka Hegde, Director i/c, ICAR-CPCRI presided over the function and mentioned about the capacity building initiatives of the institute. A total of 24 participants representing State Agriculture and Horticulture Departments, research institutes, Jain Irrigation Systems, nursery entrepreneurs and progressive coconut farmers from states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, actively took part in the training programme.

The programme featured lectures and interactive as well as practical sessions by experts from ICAR-CPCRI. The key topics covered included floral biology, coconut breeding, selection of superior palms, hybridization techniques, quality planting material development, and modern tools such as digital traceability of seedling origin, molecular marker-based hybrid authentication, advanced cultivation practices, pest and disease management, value addition, and market trends. A key highlight was the hands-on training, demonstrations and field visits, where participants gained practical experience in hybridization techniques such as emasculation, pollen collection and processing, bagging, pollination, and the modified ground pollination method. Under expert guidance, participants practiced each step, building confidence and proficiency in producing high-quality planting materials.

The valedictory session was graced by Dr. Josekutty E J, Head, Department of Botany, Government College, Kasaragod, who highlighted the importance of quality planting material in ensuring productivity of the plantations and distributed the training completion certificates to the participants. Dr. B. Augustine Jerard, Director i/c, ICAR-CPCRI presided over the function and highlighted the achievements of CPCRI in this field. Dr. Niral V., Head (Crop Improvement), ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod served as Course Director, while Dr. Diwakar Y., Senior Scientist, ICAR-CPCRI RC, Kidu and Dr. Suchitra M., Scientist, ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod served as Course Coordinators.