The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya today (January 9, 2025) through a video message.

In her message, the President said that though blessed by nature in so many ways, the North-East region also faces unique challenges in agriculture, which is the source of livelihood for nearly 70 percent of its population. She was happy to note that the ICAR Research Complex, Umiam has over the years developed over 100 crop varieties suited to the agro-climatic conditions of the region. It has also helped develop pig breeds, poultry variety and turmeric variety. By introducing high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties of paddy, maize, and horticultural crops, the Institute has helped enhance food security and rural livelihoods. The production of food grains and horticultural crops in the region has increased by 30 percent and 40 percent, respectively, in the last ten years. Furthermore, the focus on agri-based enterprises in all the agri-allied sectors like horticulture, livestock and fisheries has been instrumental in generating livelihoods and retaining the youth in agriculture. The North-East has seen a 25 percent increase in agri-entrepreneurs over the last five years, with many youth-driven ventures in floriculture, organic farming, and value addition of local produce.

Highlighting the tribal farming systems of the North-East region, such as homestead farming and terraced farming, which are a model of sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices, the President said that they are natural and organic, have low input demand and provide remarkable climate resilience. They offer valuable lessons for modern agriculture around the world. She urged scientists to engage in the documentation and validation of indigenous and traditional knowledge associated with the region’s unique crops, livestock and biodiversity. She said that the conservation of germplasm resources is crucial to safeguarding the rich heritage of the region for future generations and ensuring agricultural sustainability.

The President said that the North-East region, with its wealth of biodiversity and indigenous expertise, stands poised to lead by example. The ICAR Research Complex, Umiam can help in pairing local knowledge with modern technological tools. The region can demonstrate how we might replicate such approaches across other eco-sensitive zones in India. She urged all stakeholders to seize the moment and join hands to forge a technology-driven, ecologically anchored agricultural resurgence.

The President appreciated the ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hill Region for its 50 years of unparalleled service and dedication. She said that it has transformed challenges into opportunities and empowered the people of the North-East. She expressed confidence that the strides made in the North-Eastern Hill Region will inspire further innovation and collaboration, ensuring a prosperous future for agriculture in the region.

The President was scheduled to visit ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya today but the visit was called off due to inclement weather.

 

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