Shillong, November 13: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region at Umiam celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, honouring tribal freedom fighters and recognising the contributions of tribal farmers and entrepreneurs to agriculture and society.
The programme, held in memory of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, brought together 182 participants, including farmers, representatives of social organisations and ICAR scientists and staff.
Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang attended the event as the chief guest and called for remembering the sacrifices of freedom fighters and drawing inspiration from their courage and values.
Referring to the inscription at the Kohima War Memorial, “For your tomorrow, we gave our today,” he highlighted the sacrifices made by earlier generations for a better future.
He also appreciated ICAR’s efforts to support farmers and urged them to maintain close links with scientists and adopt improved farming practices to increase productivity and income.
KHADC MDC Mathew K. Makdoh, who attended as the guest of honour, highlighted Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage, biodiversity and traditional knowledge.
Describing farmers as the backbone of the state and the country, he stressed that agricultural research must translate into tangible improvements in farmers’ livelihoods and economic conditions.
He also called for integrating modern scientific practices with traditional farming knowledge and ensuring that indigenous practices are passed on to younger generations.
ICAR RC NEH director G. Kadirvel emphasised the need to preserve the region’s cultural heritage, traditions and indigenous knowledge. He said farmers themselves could contribute innovative ideas to agricultural development and encouraged young people to acquire new skills and take an active interest in farming.
Kadirvel also urged farmers to make better use of government schemes, including PM-KISAN, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and PM-KUSUM, to strengthen their livelihoods.
The programme was attended by Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People president Dundee C. Khongsit, Jaintia Student Union vice-president S. Lymba and Ri-Bhoi Youth Federation president B. Thankiew.
A major highlight was the felicitation of tribal farmers and entrepreneurs for their contributions.
Persara Dohling received the Best Tribal Woman Farmer Award, Reena Nongrum was conferred the Best Tribal Entrepreneur Award, while Precious John Madur received the Best Tribal Farmer Award.
The awardees were also provided with Rabi vegetable seeds as agricultural inputs.
The celebration highlighted the importance of recognising tribal contributions to agriculture while strengthening the link between scientific research, indigenous knowledge and sustainable farming in the North Eastern Hill Region.
