Shillong: Union Minister of Agriculture and Family Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan, speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of ICAR Umiam, lauded the agricultural potential of Meghalaya and the Northeast, emphasizing their capacity to become national hubs for fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
“Meghalaya is a treasure trove of agricultural wealth, with exceptional varieties of chillies, pineapples, ginger, turmeric, bananas, and orchids. The Northeast can outshine other regions in agriculture and horticulture,” Chouhan stated during the event.
The minister highlighted the need for developing crop varieties with longer shelf lives, improving logistics, and expediting the transfer of scientific innovations to farmers. “ICAR must prioritize enhancing crop shelf life and ensuring that produce reaches consumers in prime condition. Science must transition from the lab to the field swiftly to benefit farmers. The unique potential of crops like bamboo, honey, and mushrooms, along with natural farming and innovative technologies, should be leveraged to uplift rural livelihoods,” he emphasized.
Chouhan praised Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s leadership in advancing the state’s agricultural landscape and assured continued support from the central government to bolster Meghalaya’s farming sector. He further stressed the importance of collaboration among ICAR, agricultural universities, and government departments to create a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable agricultural growth.
The Union Minister underscored the region’s rich biodiversity as a major asset, advocating for better coordination among ICAR institutes, agricultural universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and state departments. He emphasized the need for developing logistics hubs, processing facilities, value addition mechanisms, and pricing frameworks tailored to the diverse agro-climatic zones of the region.
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the event through a recorded message, congratulating ICAR Umiam for 50 years of dedicated service to agriculture and rural development in the Northeast. She commended ICAR’s contributions in developing crop varieties, livestock breeds, and climate-resilient technologies customized for the region’s unique conditions, significantly enhancing food and livelihood security.
President Murmu noted a 30% increase in food grain production and a 40% rise in horticultural output in the Northeast over the past decade. She also highlighted a 25% rise in agri-entrepreneurs over the last five years, reflecting growing interest among youth in agriculture.
“The significance of agri-based enterprises in generating livelihoods cannot be overstated. These enterprises not only contribute to economic development but also attract younger generations to agriculture,” Murmu said.
The President also emphasized the importance of documenting and validating indigenous agricultural resources, conserving germplasm, and integrating local knowledge with modern scientific innovations.
The event marked a milestone in ICAR Umiam’s journey as a key institution supporting agricultural progress in the region. Both Chouhan and Murmu reiterated the central government’s commitment to empowering farmers, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainable agricultural development in Meghalaya and the Northeast.
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