Annual Zonal Workshop of KVKs Outlines Roadmap for Viksit Bharat @2047 in NEH Region

10 September 2025, Imphal

ICAR–Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone-VII, Umiam, in collaboration with the Central Agricultural University, Imphal, organized the Annual Zonal Workshop of KVKs–2025 from September 8–10, 2025 at the College of Agriculture, CAU, Imphal. The workshop was held under the theme ‘Technology – Empowerment Convergence: Transforming NEH Agriculture towards Viksit Bharat @2047.’

Inaugurating the workshop, Padma Shri Th. Chaoba Singh, Former Union Minister, lauded the contribution of KVKs in advancing northeastern agriculture and urged greater focus on farmer innovations, agri-startups, and FPOs to build self-reliant hill farming systems.

Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor, CAU, emphasized eco-friendly and natural farming for sustainable food security.

Dr. B.C. Deka, Vice-Chancellor, AAU, highlighted the need to establish germplasm hubs with barcoding facilities to conserve traditional varieties.

Presenting the impact of KVKs, Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Umiam, stated significant achievements including 150–165% increase in cropping intensity, 38% reduction in jhum area, 18.5% expansion under natural farming, and effective outreach to nearly 5,000 villages and 5.7 lakh farmers during the recent VKSA Kharif Campaign despite climatic challenges.

The workshop also featured the launch of the ICAR-ATARI website, release of publications, and an exhibition showcasing technologies and farmers’ produce. Recommendations emerging from five technical sessions provided a roadmap for transforming fragile ecosystems and advancing sustainable agricultural growth in the Northeastern Hill (NEH) region in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

The three-day event brought together Vice Chancellors of CAU’s and Assam Agricultural University, Directors of several ICAR research institutes, KVK heads from five Northeastern states, scientists, extension professionals, and progressive farmers.

(Source: ICAR–Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone-VII, Umiam)