By edukalive 
On January 9, 2025, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, marked a significant milestone in agricultural innovation by addressing the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hill Region in Umiam, Meghalaya, through a heartfelt video message. Despite inclement weather canceling her planned visit, the President’s words carried immense inspiration and recognition for the remarkable achievements of this institution.
North-East: A Land of Opportunities and Challenges
The President began by acknowledging the North-East’s unique position—a region blessed with abundant natural resources yet facing distinct agricultural challenges. With agriculture being the primary livelihood for nearly 70% of its population, innovative solutions are essential to address the region’s needs. Over the past five decades, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Research Complex, Umiam, has risen to this challenge by introducing over 100 crop varieties tailored to the region’s agro-climatic conditions, along with advancements in pig breeds, poultry, and turmeric varieties.
These efforts have been transformative. High-yielding and climate-resilient varieties of paddy, maize, and horticultural crops have significantly enhanced food security and rural livelihoods. The region has witnessed a 30% increase in food grain production and a 40% surge in horticultural output over the last decade. Moreover, the rise of agri-based enterprises in sectors such as horticulture, livestock, and fisheries has retained youth in agriculture, with a 25% increase in agri-entrepreneurs over the past five years.
Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Science
Highlighting the sustainable practices inherent to the region’s tribal farming systems—such as homestead farming and terraced farming—the President underscored their low-input demand, climate resilience, and eco-friendliness. These practices, which are naturally organic, offer invaluable lessons for global agriculture. The President urged scientists to document and validate indigenous knowledge, emphasizing the importance of conserving germplasm resources to safeguard the region’s agricultural heritage and ensure sustainability.
A Vision for the Future
The President’s message was clear: the North-East, with its rich biodiversity and indigenous expertise, is uniquely positioned to lead a technology-driven and ecologically sustainable agricultural resurgence. She encouraged stakeholders to integrate local knowledge with modern tools, envisioning the region as a model for eco-sensitive zones across India. The ICAR Research Complex’s role in pairing tradition with innovation is pivotal in this mission.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Progress
Reflecting on 50 years of service, the President commended the ICAR Research Complex for its unwavering dedication to transforming challenges into opportunities. By empowering the people of the North-East, the institution has laid a strong foundation for agricultural prosperity in the region. She expressed confidence that the strides made here would inspire further innovation and collaboration, ensuring a bright future for agriculture.
Conclusion The Golden Jubilee Celebration of the ICAR Research Complex is not just a milestone for the institution but also a testament to the resilience and potential of the North-East. As the region continues to pair its rich traditions with cutting-edge technology, it stands poised to lead by example in sustainable and innovative agriculture. The President’s heartfelt message serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to join hands in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for the North-East and beyond.