The inaugural function of the CAU Regional Agri Fair 2023-24 in North East India commenced at the State Agri Expo, 4th Mile, Chumoukedima, on December 12, 2023. The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, with Governor La Ganesan as the Chief Guest, Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang, and Advisor Mathung Yanthan as Guests of Honour. The fair, organized by the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, and sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, revolves around the theme "Connecting Agri-preneurs to Circular Economy."
In his address, Governor La Ganesan emphasized the significant potential for agricultural revolution in Nagaland. He highlighted the traditional organic methods prevalent in North Eastern states, underlining the global shift towards quality agricultural output. Governor Ganesan suggested that CAU take a leadership role in documenting and exploring the diverse food choices and horticultural bio-wealth of the region. He urged the university to prepare a comprehensive food atlas focusing on alternative food crops in the North Eastern states.
Governor Ganesan commended CAU for its efforts in training students and providing global exposure opportunities. He encouraged farmers to interact with these young minds, emphasizing the wealth of knowledge they possess. The Governor extended warm greetings and best wishes for the success of the event.
Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang addressed the audience, highlighting the fair's significance in promoting scientific and sustainable agricultural practices in Nagaland. He emphasized the vast potential for the region to become a major producer and exporter of agricultural products, given the special attention from the Government of India. Zeliang also stressed the importance of vocational education for youth, promoting self-employability and entrepreneurial skills. He urged farmers to embrace innovative and scientific ideas for agricultural improvement and expressed gratitude to CAU for organizing the event.
Advisor Agriculture, Mathung Yanthan, emphasized the transformative power of agripreneurs in the region's agricultural landscape. He pointed out the growing demand for organic products and urged agripreneurs to seize the opportunity to develop specific organic crops. Yanthan acknowledged challenges such as lack of infrastructure, processing facilities, and road connectivity, urging organizers to address these issues to boost the regional economy.
The inaugural function included the exhibition of stalls, lamp lighting, release of publications, and awards. Prof. Angad Prasad and Dr. Janmejay Pathi were honored with the Best Professional Extension awards for 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively, recognizing their significant contributions to agricultural extension education.
The event also featured a welcome and keynote address by Vice-Chancellor, CAU, Imphal, Dr. Anupam Mishra, and a vote of thanks by Prof. Ph. Ranjit Sharma, the organizing secretary.
(Tovikali, IA Chumoukedima)
