Longleng, Nagaland, 10th-11th December 2024:
        The 13th Foundation Day and Krishi Mela of ICAR-KVK, Longleng unfolded as a vibrant two-day celebration, uniting farmers, scientists, and dignitaries under the banner of agricultural innovation and sustainability. Held on the 10th and 11th of December 2024 at the KVK Office Campus, the event was a grand showcase of knowledge-sharing, cultural heritage, and futuristic farming solutions.

Day 1: 10th December 2024 – Inauguration and Krishi Mela
        The festivities began with an impressive inaugural ceremony led by Dr. Girish Patil, Director, NRC Mithun, Medziphema, who officially inaugurated the Krishi Mela. The exhibition, showcasing advanced agricultural practices and technologies, was opened by Dr. H. Kalita, Head, ICAR (RC) NEH Nagaland Centre.
The morning program started with ICAR song followed by featured inspiring speeches by esteemed dignitaries:
Mr. Tialemba Phom, Executive Secretary, PBCA Longleng, blessed the occasion. Dr. H. C. Kalita, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Longleng, delivered the welcome address.
Special addresses by Dr.Lanunochtela, DAO Longleng, and Dr.K.Saika, Principal Scientist, IARI, Assam, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in modern agriculture.
The event was enlivened by folk dance performances from the Mithun Farmers Association and SHG Longleng, capturing the cultural vibrancy of the region.
In the afternoon, a Farmer-Scientist Interaction Programme on “Scientific Mithun Farming” brought farmers and experts together for an engaging session. Chaired by Dr. Girish Patil, this program provided insights into the economic and ecological potential of Mithun farming, with active participation from scientists of ICAR and allied institutions.
The day concluded on a festive note with a Cultural Programme, celebrating Longleng’s rich traditions and its deep ties to agriculture.

Day 2: 11th December 2024 – Fostering Sustainable Agriculture
        The second day was dedicated to a Farmers-Scientist Interaction Programme on the theme “Sustainable Agriculture Production”. This program, held at 10:30 AM, was graced by Shri. Y.B. Angam, PPC President, Longleng, as the Chief Guest, and Shri. Yanger Jamir, SP Longleng, as the Guest of Honour.
Key highlights included:
A warm Welcome Speech by Dr. Lily Ngullie, SMS, KVK Longleng.
Speeches by experts such as Dr. Patu Khate (KVK Peren), Dr. Pallabi Phukan, Dr. Kalu Ram, Mr. Shubhendu, and Ms. Kumari Pallavi (KVK Longleng), and Dr. H. C. Kalita (Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Longleng).
Dr. K.L. Meena, Principal Scientist & Head, KVK Peren, emphasized sustainable farming practices tailored for Northeast India.
The Chief Guest and Guest of Honour delivered impactful speeches, urging the farming community to adopt eco-friendly practices for a resilient agricultural future. The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Shri Yuimi R., Programme Assistant, KVK Longleng, followed by refreshments.

A Landmark Event for Agricultural Innovation
The two-day celebration showcased ICAR-KVK Longleng’s commitment to empowering farmers with cutting-edge knowledge and sustainable solutions. From scientific insights on Mithun farming to interactive discussions on sustainable agriculture, the event successfully bridged the gap between research and field-level practices.
The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm of farmers reaffirmed KVK Longleng’s pivotal role in driving agricultural transformation in Nagaland.