Shillong, Aug 10: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, has begun disseminating scientific information related to agriculture, horticulture, animal sciences, fisheries, agroforestry and other relevant topics using social media.
These efforts aim to enhance farmers’ awareness and knowledge, with the ultimate goal of improving farm production and productivity. The institute’s YouTube channel (@ICARRCNEH_Podcast) has attracted more than 2,000 subscribers, including farmers, extension officers, academics and researchers. Since February 2025, the channel has uploaded 28 videos featuring scientific discussions with experts, which have garnered about 61,489 views, a press release informed.
S Hazarika, director of the institute, has stated that about two videos will be recorded and uploaded each week to provide stakeholders with valuable scientific insights into agriculture. The topics covered in these podcasts will be directly relevant to solving farmers’ problems, such as major livestock diseases, crop diseases and control measures, pest management, climate-resilient practices, soil acidity management and suitable farm machinery for hill farming.
The institute has also collaborated with the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department to help in translation and recording the information in the Khasi language for the betterment of the farmers. Besides Khasi, information is also available in English followed by Hindi in podcasts.
Additionally, the institute has created a Facebook page with 3,000 followers, where daily activities are updated and shared. It has also established an Instagram account (@icar_rc_neh_umiam) with 282 followers. These social media initiatives aim to raise awareness among the farming community and new entrepreneurs about scientific and organic farming practices to increase productivity and income.
Through these platforms the information is shared not only on cultivation techniques but also on animal rearing and herd health management. The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region endeavours to reach every farmer in the state, providing them with useful information to facilitate their farming activities with ease. The institute’s vision is to attract not only farmers but also youth interested in venturing into agriculture by fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the sector, the press release added.
