Meghalaya recently hosted a significant gathering, the Himalayan Agro Ecology Initiatives: Meghalaya Stakeholders Meeting, at CPGSAS, Umiam. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, experts, researchers, farmer groups, and NGOs, to discuss sustainable agricultural development in the Northeastern region. The meeting commenced with an inaugural function led by Dr. S. V. Ngachan, Senior Consultant, Meghalaya. Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice Chancellor of Central Agricultural University, Imphal, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the challenges and strategies for the Himalayan agro-ecosystem.
Other notable guests included Dr. Malavika Dadlani, National Consultant, who highlighted the role of agro-ecology in preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable livelihoods, and Smt. D. Sohtun and Smt. J. C. Lyngdoh, Directors of Horticulture and Agriculture for Meghalaya, respectively. The technical session, chaired by Dr. J.C. Rana and co-chaired by Dr. Dadlani, featured presentations on various aspects of agro-ecology. Topics included biodiversity conservation, sustainable farming practices, and climate change adaptation. Noteworthy speakers included Dr. Dhrupad Choudhury, Dr. Parul Thapa, and Prof. Dwipendra Thakuria.
Discussions during the parallel group sessions covered specific areas such as line departments, food processing, and farmers’ groups. Participants shared experiences and solutions to challenges faced in their fields.
