ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun (ICAR–NRCM), Medziphema, celebrated its 38th Foundation Day with enthusiasm and participation from scientists, farmers, and dignitaries from across the North Eastern region.
The celebration was graced by Dr. K. M. Bujarbaruah, Former Deputy Director General (Animal Science), ICAR; Former Vice-Chancellor, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat; and Former Director, ICAR–NRC on Mithun, as the Chief Guest.
Delivering the Foundation Day Lecture, Dr. Bujarbaruah underscored the significance of livestock, particularly Mithun, in realizing the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 through Viksit Pashudhan. He called for leveraging frontier technologies such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and genomic interventions to create a robust and self-reliant livestock sector that empowers tribal and hill communities.
The event also saw the presence of Dr. Ashis Kumar Samanta, Assistant Director General (Animal Nutrition and Physiology), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr. Kishore Kumar Baruah, GB Member, ICAR, New Delhi; Mr. Manjit Niding, Executive Member (Veterinary Department), North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council, Haflong, Dima Hasao, Assam; and Mr. Thenucho Tunyi, Former Home Minister of Nagaland, as Guests of Honor.
In his welcome address, Dr. Girish Patil, S., Director, ICAR–NRC on Mithun, highlighted the institute’s journey since inception and its contributions to Mithun research, breed improvement, and livelihood development. He emphasized the continued integration of science, innovation, and field-based interventions to enhance productivity and sustainability of Mithun farming systems.
The occasion also featured the release of several new publications documenting recent research achievements and outreach initiatives. Awards were presented to recognize outstanding contributions by scientists, staff members, and progressive Mithun farmers in promoting Mithun husbandry and rural development.
The programme concluded with a Farmer–Scientist Interaction Session, enabling direct dialogue between researchers and Mithun farmers from different states to address field challenges and explore opportunities for collaboration. The event reaffirmed ICAR–NRCM’s commitment to scientific innovation, sustainable livestock development, and the socio-economic upliftment of tribal communities in North East India.
