Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region hosted a workshop in Umiam this Thursday. Experts gathered to sharpen farmers' skills in seed production technology. The event, titled "Quality Seed Production Technology: Sowing the Future," focused on building a stronger agricultural foundation for Meghalaya.
Key officials attended the session, including M. Dkhar and I. B. Saiborn from the state government, alongside Dr. G. Kadirvel, Monica, and Bashongdor from ICAR. A diverse group participated, representing the Directorate of Agriculture, District Agriculture Officers from Ri-Bhoi and East Khasi Hills, and Research Officers from Shillong, Tura, and Jowai. Representatives from the National Seeds Corporation, AICRI, and various Farmer Producer Organizations also joined the conversation.
The group identified several paths forward. They plan to list all ICAR-developed varieties on the SATHI portal for wider access. Furthermore, they will submit a list of high-yielding, regionally adapted crop varieties to the government to kickstart large-scale seed multiplication. Attendees discussed targeting specific regions for the growth of soybean, millets, and other essential crops.
Proper storage is vital. Participants argued that Meghalaya needs processing and value-addition infrastructure for crops like soybean and perilla. These upgrades will help farmers reach new markets and boost their earnings. The workshop served as a hub for institutions and growers to align their efforts for better food security and sustainable farming across the region.
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