A Correspondent
Kanubari: In a significant development for Arunachal Pradesh's agricultural sector, the Department of Horticulture, Longding District, conducted a comprehensive training program on tuber crops in collaboration with the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI), Thiruvananthapuram.
The programme, focusing on agrifood systems and sustainable income under MIDH 2024-25, drew an unprecedented attendance of more than 400 farmers from various villages across Longding district.
Gabriel D. Wangsu, Minister for Agriculture and Allied Sectors, who attended as Chief Guest, termed it a 'historic day' for both the district and state. The minister revealed that his visit to ICAR-CTCRI last December inspired this collaboration, which will be replicated further in other parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
He assured the state government of full support for future initiatives and facilitating this collaboration.
A team of distinguished scientists from ICAR-CTCRI, including Director Dr. G. Biju, Principal Scientist Dr R. Muthuraj, Senior Scientist Dr. D. Jaganathan, and Scientist Dr. P. Prakash, conducted sessions on advanced technologies in tuber crop cultivation.
The training covered various aspects, including marketable bio-products, pre and post-harvest management, and integrated pest management. Practical demonstrations of bio-products from cassava, sweet potato and yams were also conducted.
Dr. G. Biju highlighted the significance of tuber crops in the context of global warming, describing them as 'future smart crops.' He commended Minister Wangsu's initiative in establishing this collaboration and assured continued support from ICAR-CTCRI.
ADC Kanubari, and Kunal Yadav, praised the enthusiastic participation of farmers, describing it as a small step toward a big journey.
Earlier in the day, Minister Wangsu a the fifth Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting, where he addressed several crucial agricultural concerns. He expressed worry over declining products and Mithun populations in the state, calling for enhanced coordination between departments and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
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