Kolasib, 29th February, 2023
        ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kolasib organized “Awareness cum Agricultural Input distribution for livelihood improvement of tribal farmers” under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kolasib. The event was attended by Shri Lalfamkima, Hon’ble Deputy Speaker of Mizoram as Chief Guest, and Shri John L.T. Sanga, Deputy Commissioner, Kolasib as the Guest of Honour.
        The Chief Guest of the function Hon'ble Deputy Speaker Shri Lalfamkima mentioned his long association with ICAR and KVK. He stated that to bring development in the state agriculture sector is the first priority. He also mentioned that the present government gave utmost importance to the farmers’ and farming community thereby reserving a major amount of budget for Agriculture and Allied Sectors. He also expressed that to ensure food security, the ICAR and KVK has to take concerted efforts and also urged the farmers’ to work hard with sincerity and dedication.
        The Guest of Honour, Shri John L.T. Sanga, Deputy Commissioner, Kolasib in his speech mentioned that 60% of the population in Mizoram depend on Agriculture for their livelihood. He highlighted that farmers’ are important in bringing food and nutritional security in the State. He also wished that all the participants gains knowledge on the scientific management and practices of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry for sustainable livelihood through the awareness programme.
        Dr. Sunil Doley, Head of Regional Centre, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib in his keynote address mentioned the importance of the awareness programme; the activities and achievements of ICAR under Tribal Sub Plan, and highlighted that the Backbone of Agriculture are the Farmers’. He also mentioned that the main objective of the awareness programme is to update the knowledge of the farmers’ in the latest modern technologies in Agriculture and Allied Sciences for increasing the productivity and improving the livelihood of the farming community of the State.
        Dr. Michelle C. Lallawmkimi, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK, Kolasib in her welcome address highlighted the collaboration between ICAR and KVK will benefit the farming community of State. The inaugural function ended with vote of thanks by Dr. Lalhruaipuii, Senior Scientist & Co-Nodal Officer (Tribal Sub Plan), ICAR, Mizoram Centre and the Organizing Secretary of the awareness programme.
        During the inaugural function, several critical inputs were distributed to 87 farmers of the State, and three leaflets were released by the Chief Guest. Scientists, State officials, and subject matter specialists of various departments participated in the programme. One Farmers’- Scientist interaction along with Free Plant and Animal Health Clinic, and Financial Literacy by officials from various Banks was also organized during the technical session.