An ATMA Inter-State Training Programme was conducted on 09.06.2026 at ICAR-CPCRI Regional Station, Kayamkulam, for ten officials from Kanniyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, comprising of Agricultural Officers, Assistant Directors of Agriculture, and the Deputy Director of Agriculture.

The programme commenced with an introductory session followed by specialized technical briefings and hands-on field visits. Dr. A. Josephrajkumar, Principal Scientist (Agrl. Entomology), provided valuable insights into the historical genesis of the institute, its technological innovations, and recent scientific advancements in pest and disease management in coconut plantations.

As the coordinating faculty, Dr. S. Indhuja, Senior Scientist (Agrl. Microbiology), presented a comprehensive overview of the ongoing field experiments being undertaken across various research divisions of the Station. Dr. M. Shareefa, Principal Scientist (Horticulture), delivered detailed presentations on different coconut varieties and recent developments in coconut tissue culture technology. Dr. A. Abdul Haris, Principal Scientist (Agronomy), guided the participants through practical approaches to integrated nutrient management in coconut and demonstrated fertigation trials being conducted in Block III during the field visit.

Special emphasis was given to the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” campaign. The participating officials were encouraged to promote sustainable conservation practices among farmers, particularly moisture conservation through basin mulching using coconut garden agro-residues and reduction in chemical fertilizer usage through basin management practices involving cowpea green manure and Gliricidia green leaf manure.

The training programme effectively bridged the gap between research innovations and field-level extension activities. Equipped with updated knowledge on pest and disease management, coconut varieties, tissue culture technology, and integrated nutrient management practices, the participating officials are now better positioned to disseminate the messages of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan among farming communities, thereby contributing to sustainable and profitable coconut cultivation.