Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Visits ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib

3 June, 2026, Kolasib, Mizoram

The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib, had the honour of hosting Dr L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, who formally launched the nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ at the Organic Farming Site of the Centre today.

Khet Bachao Abhiyan is a month-long national campaign jointly spearheaded by ICAR and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India, aimed at creating awareness and building the capacity of farmers on sustainable agricultural practices, soil health management, balanced fertilizer use, natural resource conservation, and climate-resilient farming technologies.

Launching the campaign, Dr Murugan highlighted the importance of protecting agricultural lands through scientific and sustainable farming practices. He emphasized the need for maintaining soil health, adopting balanced nutrient management, and promoting eco-friendly agricultural technologies to ensure long-term food security and environmental sustainability. He also appreciated ICAR's efforts in bringing research-based innovations directly to farmers.As part of the programme, the Minister led a tree plantation drive within the campus, symbolizing a collective commitment towards environmental conservation, ecological restoration, and climate-resilient agricultural development.

Welcoming the gathering, Dr Sunil Doley, HoRC, ICAR-Mizoram Centre outlined the objectives of the campaign and emphasized the importance of balanced fertilizer use, natural farming, and integrated farming systems in improving farm productivity while conserving natural resources.

The dignitaries subsequently visited the Centre's Demonstration Farm and Integrated Farming System (IFS) Unit, where scientists showcased various components of integrated agriculture, organic farming, and natural farming practices suitable for the North Eastern Hill Region. The delegation also visited the experimental plots of three promising maize varieties- Mizo Waxy Corn-1, Mizo Waxy Corn-2, and Mizo Waxy Corn-3 which are currently under consideration for release through the State Variety Release Committee (SVRC). The concerned Scientists briefed the dignitaries of these varieties on the unique characteristics, yield potential, and adaptability of these varieties under the agro-climatic conditions of Mizoram.

After the field visit, an interactive session was held with the Minister, farmers, scientists, and staff of ICAR Mizoram Centre. The Director of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, joined online and welcomed the Union Minister of State. The Director gave a brief presentation on the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” campaign.The Minister addressed the farmers, scientists, and staff of ICAR Mizoram Centre, emphasizing the reduction of excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. He promoted natural farming, soil testing, and sustainable practices, particularly for jhum cultivation, under the national campaign “Khet Bachao Abhiyan.”The Minister also released a Technical Bulletin on ‘Weather-Based Agro-Advisories for Climate Resilient Farming in Mizoram’ published by the Centre.

The visit concluded with fruitful interactions among the Minister, scientists, and farmers, reinforcing the shared commitment towards sustainable agriculture, technology dissemination, and farmer-centric development in the region. The launch of Khet Bachao Abhiyan marks another significant step in strengthening the linkage between agricultural research and field-level adoption for the benefit of farming communities.

The programme was attended by Shri H. Dolianbuaia, Deputy Commissioner, Kolasib District, the Superintendent of Police, Kolasib District, progressive farmers, ICAR scientists, staff members, and other stakeholders.

(Source: ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib)