Shri Nikhil U. Dessai, Secretary (Agriculture), Govt of Goa, Visits ICAR- CCARI, Goa

18 June 2026, Goa

Shri Nikhil U. Dessai, IAS, Secretary (Agriculture), Govt. of Goa, visited ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, today, and chaired a meeting to review the proposal for the upgradation of ICAR–KVK, North Goa. The meeting was convened for modernization of KVKs across the country in line with the action points of the 5th National Conference of Chief Secretaries. Dr Shirish Narnaware, Director (I/c), ICAR–CCARI, welcomed the Secretary.

The experts presented the major activities and achievements of ICAR–CCARI and outlined a comprehensive proposal for the upgradation of ICAR–KVK, North Goa, prepared in accordance with the communication received from the Secretary (DARE) & Director General, ICAR, envisages the establishment of several modern facilities and infrastructure units at KVK, North Goa.

During the deliberations, the Secretary appreciated the Institute’s contributions to agricultural research and development in Goa and emphasized closer collaboration between ICAR–CCARI and the Directorate of Agriculture for conservation of native crops and fruit species, and for addressing location-specific agricultural challenges through need-based research and development initiatives. He also assured support for suitable proposals. Financial and audit-related matters pertaining to RKVY-sponsored projects implemented by ICAR–CCARI were also reviewed.

Following the meeting, Shri Dessai and officials from the Directorate of Agriculture visited ICAR–KVK, North Goa, to inspect the proposed sites for the planned facilities. The delegation also visited the Institute farm and appreciated the initiatives in water conservation, bambusetum development, and agro-ecotourism. He encouraged regular visits by State Government officials and farm managers to ICAR–CCARI for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and strengthening institutional collaboration.

The meeting and field visit were attended by Shri Sandeep Fol Dessai, Director (Agriculture); Shri Nitin Bakhale, Dy. Director and RKVY Nodal Officer, Govt. of Goa; all scientists and technical officers of Insitute; Subject Matter Specialists of KVK, North Goa; and officials of the Directorate of Agriculture.

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