Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) 14: The Union Territory Agriculture Technology Management Agency (UTATMA) reviewed its ongoing agricultural extension programme and outlined its implementation strategy for 2026–27 during an Inter-Departmental Working Group (IDWG) meeting held at the Mini Conference Hall of the Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by the Secretary (Agriculture/Fisheries/Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services), who also heads the IDWG.
The discussion focused on assessing the physical and financial progress of ATMA activities for the financial year 2025–26 and finalising the State Extension Work Plan (SEWP) for 2026–27, which will be placed before the State Level Sanctioning Committee for approval.
During the review, emphasis was placed on addressing shortfalls observed in the previous year and ensuring that the targets set for 2026–27 are achieved within the stipulated timeframe through structured planning and coordinated execution across departments.
The Chairman directed that District Farmer Advisory Committees (DFACs) be constituted in all three districts. These committees will function under the chairmanship of the respective Deputy Commissioners and are expected to play a key role in strengthening district-level implementation of ATMA schemes while also channelising farmer feedback into planning processes.
The meeting also highlighted the need to expedite the filling of vacant posts of ATMA functionaries. Strengthening manpower was identified as a priority to ensure effective delivery of extension services and smoother implementation of agricultural programmes across the Union Territory.
The draft SEWP for 2026–27 was discussed in detail, with several key directions issued. These included the finalisation of training programmes for ATMA functionaries in coordination with institutions such as ICAR-KVK, CIARI, MANAGE and NABARD, along with concerned departments.
Special focus was placed on initiatives such as “Spice Pravah”, Integrated Nutrient Management, and other need-based interventions aimed at improving district-specific agricultural productivity. The meeting also emphasised the mobilisation of farmer groups with a focus on spice cultivation and the formation of Commodity-based Interest Groups (CIGs).
Organising Krishi Expos, regional fairs and district-level agricultural melas with adequate financial allocation was also discussed as part of outreach and awareness strategies. The proposal to institute Best Farmer Awards at the state, district and block levels across agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries sectors was included as a motivational measure for farmers.
Further, the strengthening of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities was highlighted, including the preparation of pamphlets, booklets and video documentation to improve knowledge dissemination. Departments were also encouraged to submit proposals for innovative agricultural activities to enhance sectoral growth.
At the beginning of the meeting, the Joint Director (Agriculture), Headquarters and Project Director (ATMA), welcomed the chair and presented a detailed overview of ongoing extension reforms and the agenda of the IDWG.
The meeting was attended by officials including Assistant Commissioners of Car Nicobar and Mayabunder, Assistant Commissioner (Headquarters), Director (Agriculture), Director (Fisheries), Director (Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services), in-charge KVK, zonal officers, and representatives from departments such as Forest, Social Welfare, Rural Development and NABARD, participating both in person and virtually.
The review process is expected to guide the implementation of agricultural extension reforms and strengthen farmer-centric planning across the Union Territory in the coming financial year.
