ICAR Hosts Deliberation on Rainfed Agriculture to Address Challenges in Northeast India

In a concerted effort to tackle the critical challenges facing rain-dependent farming systems in Northeastern India, the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, in collaboration with Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, organized a two-day-long deliberation on Rainfed Agriculture. Held on May 16 and 17, the event aimed to explore opportunities and solutions to enhance agricultural resilience in the region.

Supported by the ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA), the deliberation brought together leading agricultural research institutions to focus on the ICAR’s two All India Coordinated Research Projects on Dryland Agriculture and Agrometeorology network. Renowned figures in agricultural research, including Prof Panjab Singh and Dr Vinod Kumar Singh, played pivotal roles in discussions, stressing the importance of developing climate-resilient farming practices to bolster crop yields and sustainability.

Experts from various regions of India shared insights and practical solutions tailored to the unique climatic challenges of Northeastern India. The event underscored the urgency for robust strategies to improve the productivity and resilience of rainfed agriculture, vital for the livelihoods of many farmers in the area.

A notable outcome of the deliberation was the release of a bulletin and folder containing valuable information for farmers and agricultural stakeholders. These resources are anticipated to serve as essential guides for implementing best practices in rainfed agriculture. Furthermore, the event aimed to foster greater collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers and extension workers, bridging the gap between scientific research and on-ground farming practices to empower Northeastern farmers effectively.