8th NE Agri Fair begins at Pasighat Mein calls for innovative technologies for sustainable food production DIPRO, PASIGHAT, Nov 13: Organized by the College of Horticulture, Pasighat the four-day long 8th North East Agricultural Fair began today. Minister for Agri, Horti, AH &DD Chowna Mein inaugurated the fair. He also inaugurated the exhibition and released Souvenir on the occasion in presence of Dr. RS Paroda (DG, ICAR), Ninong Ering (MP), Dr. SN Puri (VC, CAU) MLAs Kento Rina and Kaling Moyong, Nidhi Srivastava (DC), Prof. AK Pandey (Dean), scientists and progressive farmers. In his address, Mein called for introduction of innovative technologies assimilating with the indigenous know-how for sustainable food production and sound health of the soil in the state in particular and the region as a whole. As agriculture is the main source of livelihood for the people of North Eastern states, it plays a crucial role towards overall development of the region. The said sector is the backbone of the economy of the people but one of the main problems facing by the people was lack of input from the experts and modern scientific methods, Mein observed. Though Arunachal Pradesh is mostly mountainous and sub-mountainous, it is richest in agricultural lands in the region and therefore researchers should work closely with farmers to understand and shape technology choice, he stressed. The peoples knowledge about bio-diversity, historical land use and various conservation needs are to be supplemented with modern scientific methods. Farmers should be encouraged for organic farming but scientists should impart innovate technological knowledge in order to enhance productivity and popularize integrated farming system for ensuing livelihood security, he stressed. The process of empowerment should continue in full swing to instill self-confidence among the farmers. Proper information and guidance should reach to the doorsteps of the farmers for bumper and profit making cultivation in other fields too like fish firming, poultry, diary development, floriculture etc which are suited to the local people’s wealth, skills and knowledge and also appropriate for their soil and environment, he advised. Responding to VC Puri’s appeal, the Agriculture minister assured to pursue the government to provide land for upcoming Agriculture College almost free of taxation so that the college can utilize their limited funds for other developmental activities. Padma Bhushan Dr. Rajendra Singh Paroda Ex-Secretary, DARE and Director General of ICAR (GoI), New Delhi, gracing the occasion as Guest of Honour claimed that India has achieved remarkable progress in the sector due to political will and untiring efforts of researchers/scientists. Efficient farming was difficult in India and there was concern from the union government that our country would not be able to grow enough food to support the ever-increasing population. Over last 50 years, a series of changes have taken place in farming in India under ‘Green Revolution’ introducing modern methods and farming techniques which resulted increased food output successfully. Paroda said, Northeastern region has vast potentials but it was unexplored. Time has come for specialization. Growers should not be limited with specific practices but go for high yielding cultivation and plantations. Loksabha MP Ninong Ering sharing his views and assured to extend his cooperation for development of the college. Vice Chancellor Prof. SN Puri in length presented a report of achievements of the college and informed that the authority is preparing to establish “Farmers Call Center” soon to update the farming community about various developments, guidance and supports. Among others, MLAs Kento Rina and Kaling Moyong, Dean AK Pandey and DC Nidhi Srivastava also spoke on the occasion.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Nov 2014 17:05:33 +0000
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