The Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, in collaboration with ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, organized a National Conference on “Harnessing Genetic Resources for Food Security: Innovations in Conservation and Utilization for Sustainable Crop and Livestock Improvement in the Northeast Region” from 17 to 18 November 2025 in hybrid mode.
Speaking at the inaugural session on November 17, Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University and Chief Guest, stressed that food insufficiency in the region is closely linked to changing lifestyles, fragile livelihoods, and limited support to the farm and food sectors. He emphasized that “food security must go hand in hand with food safety” and warned that violations of safety standards threaten health and sustainability. He underscored the importance of research on genetic resources and conservation strategies to strengthen resilience in the region.
Dr. Girish Patil S., Director of ICAR-NRCM, noted that Nagaland holds 98 percent of the world’s Mithun population and called for collaborative efforts to conserve this declining resource. He highlighted the Northeast’s rich biodiversity, which remains underutilized for food security, and pointed to rising temperatures as a pressing concern.
Prof. Dipak Sinha, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, said the conference was multidisciplinary and essential for developing innovative approaches to conservation. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Malini B. Sharma, and a vote of thanks was given by Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh. The conference e-book was released during the inaugural session.
The valedictory session on November 18 featured Prof. Pauline Alila as Chief Guest. She emphasized integrating traditional agricultural practices with scientific advances to help farmers adapt to climate change. The two-day event featured six thematic sessions, 185 registrations, 17 invited speakers, and participation from RAWEP students of ICAR-IARI, Assam.
