A two-day National Seminar on “Infrastructure and Sustainable Technology Solutions: Transforming Agriculture, Markets, and Rural Livelihoods,” under the banner of Vision Viksit Bharat@2047, concluded at the School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University (SAS, NU), Medziphema Campus, on February 15, 2025. The seminar, held from February 14–15, 2025, in hybrid mode, brought together academicians, experts, researchers, and students to discuss innovative solutions pivotal to transforming the agricultural landscape, improving market systems, and enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities across India.
The valedictory session was graced by N Jacob Yanthan, Managing Director & CEO of the Nagaland State Agricultural Produce & Livestock Marketing Board, Chümoukedima. Yanthan stated that organic produce from Kiphire, Mon, and other districts reaches AC Market and is further distributed across the country. He highlighted the high demand for organic kiwi, pineapple, persimmon, king chilli, ginger, and rajma (kholar beans), but noted that production is unable to meet buyers’ demands. He urged stakeholders to help connect growers with markets and streamline the supply chain. He also expressed concern over the lack of a proper price mechanism in the state, with prices varying from district to district. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Deepa Thangjam, Organizing Secretary.
Over the course of two days, five technical sessions were held under various themes, with a total of 80 participants attending the seminar.
According to a press release from NU PRO Peter Ki, the seminar commenced with an inaugural ceremony on February 14, featuring Dr Girish Patil, Director, ICAR-National Research Centre for Mithun, Nagaland, as the Chief Guest. Dr Patil emphasized the critical role of sustainable technology and infrastructure in transforming agriculture and empowering rural communities.
In her welcome address, Prof Akali Sema, Pro Vice-Chancellor, School of Agricultural Sciences, NU, Medziphema Campus, underscored the importance of infrastructure and sustainable technology in agricultural transformation. Additionally, Prof KK Jha, Co-Convenor of the seminar, stressed the need for climate-resilient agriculture, robust road infrastructure, strengthened Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), the digitization of agriculture through AI and IoT, the development of farmer-friendly agricultural apps, and the promotion of entrepreneurship among rural youth.