North-East Region Poised to Lead with Sustainable Agricultural Practices: President Murmu

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 10th Jan. President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday attended the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, through a video message.

In her address, the President highlighted the region’s natural abundance and the unique agricultural challenges faced by the North-East, which is home to nearly 70 percent of the population dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. She acknowledged the pivotal role of the ICAR Research Complex, which has developed over 100 crop varieties tailored to the region’s agro-climatic conditions. Notable innovations include pig breeds, poultry varieties, and turmeric strains, contributing to food security and enhancing rural livelihoods.

She emphasized that the introduction of high-yielding, climate-resilient varieties of paddy, maize, and horticultural crops has led to a 30 percent increase in food grain production and a 40 percent increase in horticultural crops over the last decade. Additionally, agri-based enterprises in sectors such as horticulture, livestock, and fisheries have played a vital role in generating employment and retaining youth in agriculture. The region has seen a 25 percent rise in agri-entrepreneurs in the last five years, with youth-driven ventures flourishing in organic farming, floriculture, and value addition of local produce.

The President also highlighted the sustainable tribal farming systems of the region, such as homestead and terraced farming, which have low input demands and offer remarkable climate resilience. She called for the documentation and validation of indigenous agricultural practices and knowledge, especially concerning the region’s unique crops, livestock, and biodiversity. This, she said, is crucial for preserving the region’s agricultural heritage and ensuring future sustainability.

Murmu expressed confidence that the North-East region, rich in biodiversity and indigenous knowledge, is poised to lead by example in pairing local practices with modern technological advancements. She urged all stakeholders to collaborate in fostering an ecologically sound, technology-driven agricultural revival that can be replicated across eco-sensitive zones in India.

The President commended the ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hill Region for its 50 years of service, noting that it has turned challenges into opportunities and empowered the North-Eastern population. She concluded by expressing her belief that the innovations and strides made by the Complex will inspire further progress, ensuring a prosperous future for agriculture in the region.

The President had been scheduled to visit the ICAR Research Complex in Umiam, Meghalaya, but her visit was called off due to inclement weather.