Shri Ramnath Thakur visits ICAR-ATARI, Zone VI, Guwahati

20 February 2026, Guwahati

Shri Ramnath Thakur, Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, visited ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone - VI, Guwahati, Assam, Zone VI, Guwahati today to review institutional functioning, staff welfare, research progress, and extension activities. The visit reflected the Government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural research and ensuring farmer-centric innovation in the North Eastern region.

He called upon the Institute to create a distinct identity and aim for excellence that would bring national recognition. ‘My goal is not merely to raise issues but to change the situation,’ the Minister stated, urging officers and scientists to focus on measurable outcomes and tangible benefits for farmers.

Earlier, Dr. G. Kadirvel, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Zone VI, highlighted the key achievements of the institute during his welcome address. The meeting was attended by Dr. V. K. Gupta, Director, ICAR-NRC on Pig, Rani; Dr. Alpana Das, Head, ICAR-CPCRI, Regional station, Kahikuchi and other officials of nearby ICAR institutes and staffs of ICAR-ATARI, Zone VI, Guwahati.

The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the Government’s resolve to transform agricultural research institutions into dynamic, accountable, and farmer-oriented centers of excellence that directly contribute to rural prosperity and national food security.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone - VI, Guwahati, Assam, Zone VI, Guwahati)