As part of the National Science Day celebrations 2024, a workshop on the theme: ‘Climate Change in Plantation Sector’ was conducted at ICAR-CPCRI, Regional Station, Kayamkulam on 28.02.2024.

The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. K. Balachandra Hebbar, Director, ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod. In his inaugural address, he highlighted the way in which innovative thoughts translate into useful technologies for the betterment of humanity. He described the role of science, technology and innovation in the progress of the nation.

Dr. B. Sasikumar, Retired Head, Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode, was the Chief Guest for the programme. He delivered a thought provoking lecture on the topic "Science for Societal Welfare: Some Imprints". He highlighted the importance of observations as an important quality of a scientist.

Dr. M. Murugan, Professor and Head, Cardamom Research Station (KAU), Pampadumpara, delivered the key-note address on the topic ‘Impact of Climate Change on Plantation Crops’. He stressed the importance of collective efforts to protect precious resources at the global level for the existence of mankind.

Dr. Regi Jacob Thomas, Head, ICAR-CPCRI, Regional Station, Kayamkulam briefly explained the history of plantation crops in India. ‘Kalpa Darshika', a publication with the profiles of all the past and present staff members of ICAR-CPCRI, Regional Station, Kayamkulam, as well as an awareness video on ‘Vascular streak dieback in cocoa', was released during the occasion.

An elocution competition on the topic ‘Science for a Sustainable Future’ and a quiz contest were conducted for the student participants. In the valedictory session, Dr. K.B. Hebbar distributed prizes to the winners of the elocution and quiz competitions.

More than 80 students from different colleges along with farmers participated in the workshop.