24 June 2025, Umiam
ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone VII, Umiam, celebrated its 9th Foundation Day today with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and future-ready agricultural development in the Northeast.
Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Health & Family Welfare, IPR & Law, Government of Meghalaya, inaugurated the event as Chief Guest with a symbolic "green inauguration" by watering a sapling, emphasizing the state's commitment to sustainable agriculture.
In her inaugural address, Dr. Lyngdoh acknowledged the transformative impact of Krishi Vigyan Kendras, calling them a frontline extension mechanism that helped shift India from a food-deficit to a food-surplus nation.
The Minister lauded the contribution of KVKs in Meghalaya, especially in niche crop promotion, mushroom cultivation, fish post-harvest technology, and Biotech-KISAN hubs. She also highlighted the state's leadership in natural and climate-resilient farming initiatives.
Dr. B.C. Deka, Vice Chancellor, Assam Agricultural University, delivered the keynote address on "Northeast Agriculture for Vikshit Bharat @2047", presenting a strategic roadmap for regional agricultural development aligned with national aspirations.
Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-ATARI Umiam, highlighted the institute’s outreach through its network of 43 KVKs across Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. He spoke about key initiatives such as agro-climate-based Integrated Farming Systems (IFS), quality seed production, Rural Agri-Business Incubation Centres (RABIC), and strengthened collaboration with state departments.
Dr. A.K. Tripathi, Former Director, ICAR-ATARI Umiam, reflected on the institute’s journey and milestones.
Dr. S. Ghatak, Director (I/C), ICAR-RCNEH, Umiam, emphasized animal husbandry’s role in rural livelihoods.
Ms. J.R. Blah, GM, NABARD, Shillong, presented NABARD’s agri-development initiatives.
Mrs. J.C. Lyngdoh, Director, Agriculture, Meghalaya, highlighted the state's progress and plans in agriculture.
A major highlight of the day was the conferment of the "KRISHI GAURAV" Award to innovative farmers by the Chief Guest, recognizing their outstanding contributions to agriculture. The Minister also inaugurated an exhibition featuring farm innovations and technologies from all 43 KVKs under ATARI, Umiam.
The event saw participation from over 250 officials and scientists from ICAR institutes, KVKs, state agriculture departments, and academic institutions including CPGS-AS, CAU, Umiam. The day featured a Foundation Day lecture, technology demonstrations, scientist-KVK interfaces, and felicitation of achievers.
(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone VII, Umiam)
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