Regional workshop on seed & value chain management for promotion of oilseeds in northeast India

8^th March 2025, Guwahati

ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone VI, Guwahati in collaboration with ICAR-Indian Institute of Oilseed Research, Hyderabad; ICAR-ATARI Zone VII, Umiam and Central Agricultural University, Imphal, organized a regional workshop on seed and value chain management for promotion of oilseeds in North East India today. The event took place at the auditorium of the Indian Institute of Bank Management (IIBM), Guwahati, and focused on the current status, potential, and challenges of oilseed cultivation in the Northeast region. Discussions centered on strengthening the oilseed value chain to provide farmers generate end to end-to-end solutions and subsequently enhance their income.

The Chief Guest Dr Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor, Central Agricultural University, Imphal emphasized the importance of developing improved oilseed crop varieties and promoting oilseed-based products to boost the sector’s growth. He highlighted how advancements in seed technology, coupled with region-specific strategies, can significantly improve productivity and self-sufficiency in oilseed production. 

Dr R.K. Mathur, Director, ICAR-IIOR, Hyderabad, discussed the export potential of sesame oil from the Northeast and underscored the need to implement oilseed-based cropping systems. Such approaches could enhance economic growth while mitigating the risks associated with mono-cropping and climate variability.

Dr A.K. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-ATARI Zone VII, Umiam, provided insights into mustard consumption patterns across the Northeast and stressed the vital role of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in improving production and marketing. 

Shri Peter Salam, Director, Agriculture, Government of Manipur, presented an overview of oilseed cultivation in Manipur, addressing key challenges such as limited availability of quality seeds and inadequate mechanization. He also discussed potential solutions, including capacity-building initiatives and technology-driven interventions to support farmers.

Earlier, Dr G. Kadirvel, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Zone VI, accentuated the importance of oilseed cultivation in the northeastern region. He stressed the need for comprehensive value chain development and robust market linkages to ensure long-term growth and sustainability in the sector. He also mentioned the need for oilseed-based start-up development in the region.

During the workshop, eminent scientists from across the Northeast presented insights on various aspects of oilseed production, including seed availability, productivity enhancement, and technological interventions. Discussions also focused on strategies for scaling up oilseed cultivation through research-driven solutions and policy support.

Other distinguished attendees were Shri Loken Das, CGM, NABARD, Guwahati along with Senior Scientists & Heads, Subject Matter Specialists of KVKs, Scientists and staff from ICAR-ATARI, Zone VI and officials from line departments across the entire North Eastern region.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone VI, Guwahati)