The College of Post-Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences (CPGS-AS), Umiam, inaugurated a two-day national conference on ‘Enhancing Agricultural Growth with Special Reference to North East India: Synergising Industry and Scientific Innovations for Demand-Driven Crop Improvement’ at its campus today.
The conference, held in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the North Eastern Council, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and NABARD, brings together over 200 participants, including scholars, researchers, faculty members and delegates.
The event focuses on innovative strategies to address the unique challenges and opportunities in the North East’s agriculture sector. Key themes include demand-driven crop improvement, industry-science collaboration and sustainable agricultural growth.
D Thakuria, Chairman and Dean of CPGS-AS, welcomed the delegates and emphasised the role of plant breeders in the region’s agro-ecological hotspots. He highlighted the importance of introducing new crop varieties suited to local conditions and encouraged students to engage with experts in the field.
Chief guest Ampareen Lyngdoh, the Agriculture Minister, stressed the need to double farmers’ incomes through natural farming and highlighted the critical role of plant breeders in this endeavour.
