A one-day farmers’ training programme on “Improved Seed Production and Storage Practices of Major Crops
under Changing Climate in the North Eastern Hill Region” was organized on 25th March 2026 at Tyrso, Bhoirymbong under the NICRA project. The training aimed
to strengthen farmers’ knowledge and capacity in quality seed production and improved crop management practices to cope with the emerging challenges of hill
agriculture under changing climatic conditions. Participants were sensitized to the importance of quality planting materials, appropriate varietal selection,
and active community participation in seed production—as key components for building climate-resilient farming systems in the hill ecosystems of Northeast India.
The programme began with an inaugural address by Dr. Krishnappa R., Senior Scientist, Division of Crop
Science and Principal Investigator (NICRA), ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam. In his remarks, he emphasized the critical role of quality seeds
and improved agricultural practices in enhancing productivity vis a vis mitigating the adverse effects of climate variability on hill farming systems.
The technical sessions were conducted by scientists from the Division of Crop Science, including Dr. Amit Kumar,
Dr. Letngam Touthang, and Dr. Nivedita S., along with Miss Erlymelin Jamu, Field Officer from the School of Livelihood and Rural Development (SLRD), Meghalaya.
The resource persons delivered lectures on scientifically improved planting materials for seasonal vegetables, suitable rice cultivars for upland and lowland ecosystems,
optimal crop spacing, and the potential of high-value crops under organic farming practices in hill regions.An interactive session followed, during which farmers actively
shared their experiences and raised queries related to seed quality, varietal selection, organic nutrient management, and crop productivity under erratic rainfall conditions.
The scientists provided practical, location-specific recommendations, facilitating a meaningful exchange of knowledge between farmers and researchers.
The programme was successfully organized with the active involvement of scientists from the Division of
Crop Science, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam. Additional support was provided by project staff, including Dr. Rajesh Khan, YP-II (NICRA),
and Mr. Victorio Tariang, Skilled Staff, Plant Physiology Section, ensuring the smooth execution of the event.
The training concluded with the distribution of improved seeds of seasonal vegetables and climate
resilient rice varieties to participating farmers, aimed at promoting quality seed production with climate-resilient agricultural practices in the region.
The entire programme was conducted under the NICRA project of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam. The programme witnessed the participation of around
40 farmers, primarily from tribal farming communities of Ri-Bhoi district.
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