13th September 2024, Goa

Padma Shri awardee and veteran actor Shri Manoj Joshi visited the ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, today. He interacted with staff and explored various aspects of coastal agriculture. During his visit, Shri. Joshi toured several key areas, including the integrated farming system, natural farming practices, germplasm block, animal science units, livestock waste valorization system, Jalopchar Unit, Agro-ecotourism Hut and Nakshatra Vatika.

Particularly interested in natural farming, the veteran actor engaged in in-depth discussions about its principles and practices. He expressed his enthusiasm for applying natural farming techniques to coconut cultivation, with black pepper as an intercrop, and praised the rich biodiversity present on the campus. He highlighted the importance of conserving biodiversity for maintaining ecosystem sustainability. Additionally, he focused on the institute's indigenous cattle germplasm and the innovative livestock waste processing units.

The conversion of cattle dung into biogas, value-added biofertilizers, and Jeevamrut (a bio-fertilizer used in natural farming) fascinated him. The Padma Shri awardee also urged exploring value-added products from indigenous cattle dung that could be developed through women’s self-help groups, providing potential livelihood opportunities.

Dr Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, was also present on the occasion.

(Source: ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa)