Northeast India calls for agroecological transformation in national policies

Over 70 participants from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura gathered in Guwahati on January 23-24, 2025, for a discussion on revitalizing agroecology. With a focus on indigenous stewardship, food sovereignty, and resilient futures, the event was organized by the Consortium for Agroecological Transformation (CAT) and marked the fifth convening of its North Eastern India Chapter. This initiative is part of a national movement to scale farmer-centric, landscape-based agroecological transitions.

The two-day convening, supported by organizations like North-East Network (NEN), NESFAS, SeSTA, Farm to Food, C-GEM, and the Better Life Foundation, addressed key themes such as sustainable natural resource management, economic viability of agroecological enterprises, and youth engagement in the agricultural sector.

Calling for a paradigm shift in agricultural policy
Policy experts and grassroots leaders emphasized the need to integrate agroecology into national policies to ensure long-term resilience and sustainability. Amba Jamir, a policy expert from Nagaland, highlighted the neglect of agroecology in existing frameworks:
“This convening has made it very clear that a paradigm shift is needed for agroecology-based food and natural resource management systems.

Despite its benefits, agroecology remains neglected in our national policies. The government must recognize its importance and prioritize its development.”

Shirish Joshi, an independent expert, pointed out that scaling agroecology requires systemic support: “We need to provide a level playing field to farmers engaged in agroecological farming approaches like organic and natural farming. For agroecology-based farming to be profitable, it must operate at a scale where multiple actors in the value chain can participate profitably.”

BK Sohliya, Executive Advisor and Chairman of the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission, reiterated his commitment to supporting farmers: “Agroecology is the need of the hour, and we will provide all possible support to farmers. We are open to collaborating with other states as well.”

Indigenous knowledge and collaboration as policy pillars.
Speakers stressed the significance of incorporating indigenous knowledge and promoting collaborative platforms. Gratia E. Dkhar, from NESFAS in Shillong, noted:

“The Consortium has provided us with a valuable platform to connect with like-minded organizations, explore scalable models, and foster collaboration. This initiative enables grassroots organizations like ours to collectively champion communities, nature, and climate, grounded in respect for biodiversity and the wisdom of Indigenous Peoples.”

Satyendra Madhab Mahanta, from Vidhi Analytica, emphasized that traditional knowledge must inform policy frameworks:

“Farmers’ traditional knowledge and good agricultural practices must be highlighted in policy. Practical insights from farmers should be heard, not just top-down approaches from think tanks.”

Youth engagement: A critical agenda
The role of youth in agroecological transformation emerged as a central theme. Deep Jyoti Sonu Brahma, from Farm2Food Foundation Assam, highlighted the region’s untapped potential:

“Northeast India contributes almost 50% of the country’s unemployed youth despite having only 1% of the total youth population. Agroecology can be a solution to food system challenges and the climate crisis. We must empower young people to co-lead in finding and implementing solutions.”

Dimpy, a student from Jorhat, echoed this sentiment:

“Youth have innovative ideas and skills that can bring positive changes in the agriculture sector. However, agroecology must be made more attractive to engage them in promoting traditional agricultural practices and local food systems.”

Northeast India as a model for agroecological transformation
Kapil Shah, founder of Jatan Trust in Gujarat, underscored the region’s potential:

“The Northeast can teach others about agroecology. Organic farming has evolved over the past four decades, and it’s time to elevate agroecology to new heights.”

Sethrichem Sangtam, founder of Better Life Foundation, Nagaland, called for a farmer-first approach:

“The Northeast boasts a diverse agro-ecological landscape. Policymakers must adopt a ‘farmer’s lens’ to ensure pro-farmer policies. The region can reclaim its food sovereignty by promoting natural farming practices.”

Looking ahead: A policy roadmap for agroecology
CAT plans to establish three agroecological transformation landscapes across India, integrating ecosystem-level support services for long-term sustainability. The initiative will involve diverse stakeholders to co-create scalable, farmer-centric solutions.

MT