The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, along with the Indian Association of Hill Farming (IAHF), opened the three-day international conference PASEL-2025 at Pragna Bhavan, Agartala. The event focuses on sustainable hill farming, innovation, and ecological balance.
Minister Animesh Debbarma Inaugurates the Event
Animesh Debbarma, Minister for Forest, Science, Technology & Environment, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. He inaugurated the conference by opening an exhibition that displayed new farming technologies, local innovations, and success stories from the region. The ceremony began with lighting of the lamp and the ICAR song.
While addressing the gathering, the Minister stressed the need to strengthen nature-based farming. He also highlighted the importance of practical research that directly helps farmers. According to him, Tripura hosting such an international event is a major step for the state. He praised ICAR’s long-standing work in improving agriculture across the Northeast.
Focus on Practical, Localised Research
The Minister recalled India’s journey from rice-import dependence to self-reliance. He credited both farmers and agricultural scientists for this achievement. He urged researchers to focus on field-based solutions instead of publication-driven work, and he also encouraged the development of crop varieties that suit local soil, climate, and food habits.
During his visit to the exhibition, he appreciated several innovations. He showed special interest in the progress made in mushroom cultivation. However, he reminded that new technologies must protect natural quality and promote the sustainable use of local resources.
Dignitaries Attend the Inaugural Session
Several dignitaries were present at the programme, including:
- Dr. Samarendra Hazarika, Director, ICAR RC for NEH Region
- Prof. (Dr.) R.K. Saha, Vice Chancellor, Techno India University Tripura
- Prof. (Dr.) Shyamal Das, Vice Chancellor, Tripura University
- Dr. K. M. Bujarbaruah, Former DDG (Animal Science), ICAR and Former Vice Chancellor, Assam Agricultural University
A Souvenir and a Book of Abstracts were released during the event. Shri Jitendra Majumdar, MLA of Kakraban, also addressed the audience. Later, the Chief Guest presented IAHF Awards and released ICAR Tripura’s institutional publications.
Call for Stronger Collaboration
In his closing remarks, the Minister called for deeper collaboration among farmers, scientists, and policymakers. He said stronger partnerships are essential for building a sustainable and profitable agricultural future in the Northeastern hill regions.
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