“Biodiversity fair cum plant genetic resources conservation awareness programme was organized at ICAR-NBPGR, Regional Station, Umiam on 9th December, 2023. In both the programmes more than 100 farmers each participated and demonstrated the diversity of indigenous crops. In the programme at NBPGR RS, Umiam farmers from the villages of Sumer, Pyllun and Lumdaitkla under Ri-Bhoi district had attended the programme. The stall comprising of various farm products of agri-horticultural crops were displayed at the event. In the programme at ICAR-NBPGR RS Umiam Dr. G.P. Singh, the Director, ICAR-NBPGR was the Chief Guest and Dr. J. C Rana, Country Representative, Bioversity International & CIAT Alliance and Dr. Mayank Rai, Dean, In-charges, College of Post-Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Umiam were the Guest of Honour. Dr. G.P. Singh, the Director, ICAR-NBPGR highlighted the need for the collection, characterization and conservation of indigenous genetic resources of northeast India.
He also emphasized on developing value chain and marketing support for the farmers to add value to local genetic resources and enhance livelihood of farmers. Dr. Rana and Dr. Mayank Rai, Dr. PK Singh, Head, Germplasm Exploration and Collection Division, ICAR-NBPGR also highlighted the need germplasm conservation of indigenous landraces, cultivars and wild fruits and vegetables for food and nutritional security. Farmers were also addressed by Dr. S.K. Malik, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer, NEH Scheme, ICAR-NBPGR, Dr. Julious Uchoi, Officer Incharge of the Station and Dr. Subarna Hajong, Scientist, ICAR-NBPGR, Umaim. Farmers actively participated in the interaction and presented their views on status of indigenous landraces. Khasi mandarin plants and other farm inputs were distributed to all the participating farmers.
Read more: http://www.nbpgr.ernet.in/News_Details/aid/538.aspx
