A major two-day Assam Dairy and Livestock Conclave concluded on Wednesday at Raj Bhavan, underscoring the state’s commitment to promoting sustainable growth, rural entrepreneurship, and innovation in the agricultural sector. The event, inaugurated by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, brought together policymakers, experts, and industry professionals to explore new strategies that could strengthen Assam’s dairy, livestock, and cooperative sectors. The conclave aimed to boost self-reliance among farmers and empower rural communities through innovation and skill development.
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Governor Acharya Emphasizes Rural Self-Reliance
Governor Acharya opened the conclave by highlighting the critical role of rural empowerment in Assam’s economic progress. He stated that true development lies in enhancing the lives of people who depend on agriculture and livestock for their livelihood. According to him, the dairy and livestock industries hold immense potential to transform rural economies if supported with scientific methods, proper training, and modern technology.
The Governor also urged the departments concerned to promote cooperative-based models to help farmers achieve self-sufficiency. “The success of Assam’s rural economy depends on how well we can integrate technology, sustainability, and inclusivity into our growth plans,” he remarked. He stressed that empowering rural entrepreneurs is key to building a self-reliant Assam aligned with India’s mission of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Promoting Sustainable Dairy and Livestock Growth
Sustainability formed the central theme of the Assam dairy and livestock conclave. Several experts shared their insights on reducing the carbon footprint of livestock farming and promoting environment-friendly practices. They suggested innovative measures such as organic fodder cultivation, waste-to-energy conversion, and efficient water management systems to make dairy production more eco-friendly.
Speakers also discussed the potential of organic dairy products in both domestic and global markets. By focusing on sustainable and ethical production, Assam can tap into a growing consumer base that values natural and locally sourced food. Participants agreed that adopting green practices not only protects the environment but also enhances profitability and long-term growth for farmers.
Experts Call for Better Coordination and Modernization
The conclave brought together representatives from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Assam Livestock and Poultry Corporation, and various cooperatives. They discussed how improved coordination between agencies could create a more resilient and transparent system. Experts from agricultural universities presented research on increasing animal productivity through better breeding and disease control.
They also recommended using data-driven methods and digital tools to monitor livestock health, optimize feeding, and manage resources efficiently. Such measures, they said, can boost productivity while reducing costs. A few experts urged the state government to modernize its cooperative framework to make it more responsive to market needs.
Technology and Skill Development at the Core
One of the highlights of the conclave was the focus on technology-driven growth. Participants discussed the use of drones, artificial intelligence, and mobile applications for monitoring livestock and predicting diseases. These tools can make farming smarter, faster, and more profitable.
However, several speakers stressed that technology alone cannot guarantee success. They emphasized the need for continuous skill development to help farmers adapt to modern tools and practices. Training programs, especially for women and youth, were recommended to enhance capacity building and promote entrepreneurship.
Dr. Ranjan Borthakur, an agricultural economist, said that training should focus not only on livestock care but also on business management and marketing. “Equipping farmers with practical skills ensures that they are not only producers but also entrepreneurs capable of managing their enterprises effectively,” he said.
Strengthening the Cooperative Ecosystem
The conclave also placed strong emphasis on reviving the cooperative movement in Assam. Speakers highlighted that cooperatives are essential in ensuring fair prices, equitable distribution of resources, and collective growth. They suggested policies that make it easier to form and manage cooperatives.
Governor Acharya encouraged government agencies to work hand in hand with cooperatives to help small farmers access better markets and financing. He noted that transparency and accountability must be core principles of every cooperative structure. Participants also recommended creating a centralized digital database to track livestock farmers and cooperatives across the state, improving policy planning and support delivery.
Empowering Farmers and Building Rural Entrepreneurship
Empowering farmers remained at the heart of every discussion. Experts agreed that Assam’s dairy and livestock industries can become growth engines if farmers are equipped with adequate support, knowledge, and market access. The conclave proposed special funding schemes and credit facilities to help farmers adopt modern technology and expand their operations.
Speakers highlighted the need for young entrepreneurs to enter the dairy and livestock industries. With rising demand for dairy and meat products, rural entrepreneurship can provide large-scale employment and reduce migration from villages to cities. Participants called for collaboration between universities, private enterprises, and cooperatives to support start-ups in this sector.
Assam’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
As the two-day Assam dairy and livestock conclave concluded, the Governor praised the collective efforts of all participants. He said the discussions had laid the foundation for a new vision that aligns with Assam’s aspiration for sustainable development and inclusive growth. The insights gathered will guide future policy decisions to ensure long-term benefits for farmers and rural communities.
Governor Acharya reaffirmed the state’s commitment to transforming Assam into a hub of dairy and livestock excellence. He expressed confidence that through innovation, cooperation, and sustainability, Assam will soon set a benchmark for the entire Northeast region.
The conclave successfully showcased Assam’s determination to build a self-reliant and sustainable agricultural future. By combining traditional knowledge with modern innovation, the state aims to create a vibrant rural economy that uplifts every farmer, ensures food security, and contributes significantly to India’s overall growth.
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