Shillong, Jan 9: Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan today praised the Northeast’s potential to become a hub for fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Chouhan addressed the Golden Jubilee and Farmers Expo 2025, organized by the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, to mark 50 years of dedication to agricultural innovation and development in the Northeastern states of India.
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“Meghalaya is a treasure trove of agricultural wealth. The variety of chillies, pineapples, ginger, turmeric, bananas, and even orchids is extraordinary. The Northeast can truly outshine other regions in agriculture and horticulture,” he remarked.
The program was inaugurated by the Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Dr M Amapareen Lyngdoh, who visited the various stalls showcasing the region’s rich agricultural diversity.
Chouhan then emphasised the need for developing crop varieties with longer shelf life, improved logistics, and strengthening the lab-to-land approach.
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“ICAR must focus on increasing the shelf life of crops and ensuring they reach consumers in the best condition. The transition of science from the lab to the field must be faster to benefit farmers directly. Natural farming, innovative technologies, and the unique potential of crops like bamboo, honey, and mushrooms must be leveraged to uplift rural livelihoods,” Chouhan added.
The Union Minister also commended the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and assured continued support to the state.
He reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts between ICAR, agricultural universities, and government departments to chart a roadmap for sustainable agricultural growth in the region.
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Chouhan emphasized that Meghalaya’s biodiversity is a wealth to the region and added a roadmap to be worked out tirelessly. There is a necessity for better coordination among ICAR institutes, agricultural universities, KVKs, and state departments. The region has different agro-climatic zones, which require a combined effort of several departments, particularly for the development of a logistic hub, processing, value addition, and pricing of the products.
(Newmai News Network)
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