As the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI) enters the 100th year of its operations, the organisation is gearing up for its centenary celebrations from March 12.
The occasion would be marked by the unveiling of its centenary logo along with a painting by artist P.S. Punichithaya depicting his impressions on the research achievements of the institute, CPCRI director P. Chowdappa told a press conference here on Tuesday.
Over 2,000 farmers have registered for a Kisan Mela being organised as part of the programme.
Various institutes of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), agricultural input agencies and Kudumbasree units would take part in the exhibition organised as part of the Kisan Mela, Mr. Chowdappa said.
Hundred farmers representing all coconut growing regions in the country would plant 100 coconut seedlings at the Centenary Coconut Park at 10 a.m. on March 12.
Coconut research in India started with the setting up of Central Coconut Research Stations in 1916. During 1970, it was brought under the ICAR as the CPCRI, with mandate on all small holder plantation crops.
Later separate institutes were formed for spices, cashew, and oil palm.
At present, coconut, areca nut and cocoa are the crops coming under the purview of the institute.

Source : The Hindu