Shillong, Sep 12: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam organised a one-day workshop on ‘Connecting Science, Technology and Farmers for Sustainable Agriculture’ that brought together scientists, KVK officials and stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening linkages for sustainable agricultural development in the region.
Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR Dr Rajbir Singh said KVKs must function with greater efficiency, wider outreach and farmer-centric approach and stressed need for location-specific and climate-resilient technologies.
Expressing concern over the 49 per cent rainfall deficit in North East, Dr Singh said urgent need is to focus on climate-smart and hill-specific crops to ensure long-term sustainability.
Principal Scientist and Head, DTAC Dr B P Singh highlighted the importance of strengthening the KVK system as a mechanism for extension and interaction with farming communities.
Dr Alpana Das, I/c Director, ICAR-ATARI Zone VI, Guwahati emphasized crucial role of KVKs in extension and technology dissemination, while Dr A K Mohanty, Director, ATARI Zone VII, Umiam stressed coordinated efforts among KVKs and ICAR institutes towards vision of Viksit Bharat.
Director, ICAR-RC NEH Dr G Kadirvel said KVKs are vital interface between research institutions and farmers and stressed the need for region-specific approaches and end-to-end approach for commercially viable products from horticultural crops. He said the institute aims to bring about 2 lakh hectares under natural farming across North east.
