Focus on tech integration in agriculture, bioeconomy, and rural innovation
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, held a high-level review meeting with leading scientific institutions from the Northeast on Tuesday as part of his two-day official visit to Wokha district, Nagaland.
The meeting, held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Wokha, aimed to strengthen the integration of science and technology in key sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, and education, with a special focus on localized implementation of central government schemes. Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr Chumben Murry, also attended the meeting.
Six major scientific institutions participated in the review session, including the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati; North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), Shillong; Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Imphal; CSIR–North East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST), Jorhat; the office of the Additional Surveyor General, Eastern Zone, Survey of India, Kolkata; and the Directorate of Geo-Spatial Data, Assam and Nagaland, Guwahati.
Representatives from each institute delivered PowerPoint presentations showcasing their outreach programmes, research work, and collaborative efforts in the region. Discussions centered on applying scientific innovation to rural development, improving farm productivity, enhancing household economies, and promoting value-added local products.
Particular attention was given to the utilization of bioresources and developing a robust bioeconomy in the district. Wokha’s recognition of banana as its official “One District One Product” (ODOP) became a focal point for the review, with emphasis on expanding banana fibre extraction, supporting agribusiness ventures, and fostering sustainable value chains.
Dr Singh encouraged the participating institutions to form active collaborations with district-level line departments. He stressed the importance of converting scientific research into practical applications that directly benefit the people of remote yet resource-rich areas like Wokha.