Over 25,000 Farmers Empowered as Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan Wraps Up in A&N Islands
The Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands marked the successful conclusion of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) on 12th June 2025. This 15-day Pre-Kharif initiative, launched on 29th May, served as an intensive outreach campaign to empower local farmers through awareness of central government schemes and sustainable agricultural practices.
The campaign was launched after a high-level preparatory meeting led by the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, who emphasized active communication of modern innovations and the importance of Gram Panchayat-level transparency. Departments were directed to engage Panchayati Raj members, field-level officers, and ensure structured reporting and feedback mechanisms throughout the campaign.
Farmer participation poured in from across all corners of the islands—including remote and interior regions. On the very first day, A&N Islands ranked 4th nationwide in percentage of farmer engagement, demonstrating the enthusiasm and responsiveness of the local community.
One standout feature was the Krishi Rath, flagged off from Chouldari village in South Andaman. The mobile awareness van journeyed across rural stretches, sharing messages via banners, audio broadcasts, and direct farmer interactions, strengthening grassroots reach.
In sync with World Environment Day and the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, 569 fruit-bearing saplings were planted at Self-Help Group locations, Anganwadi Centres, and government offices—honoring both environmental stewardship and emotional connection with nature.
Over the campaign fortnight, 194 events—including awareness drives, nukkad nataks, sports meets, and village chaupals—attracted 25,581 participants. These vibrant events brought together farmers, fishermen, women from SHGs, and youth, driven by coordinated efforts from Krishi Vigyan Kendras and field officers. Notably, the campaign even reached the distant Nancowry group of islands, sometimes requiring boat travel to ensure no community was left behind.
Continuous monitoring by Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners maintained momentum and ensured field-level accountability. Frequent press releases kept the public informed, while real-time feedback and documentation of best practices enhanced learning and campaign impact.
The successful culmination of VKSA in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands sets a new benchmark for grassroots agricultural outreach—underscoring the Administration’s enduring commitment to inclusive, sustainable development in alignment with the Viksit Bharat vision.
