The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, in collaboration with the Indian Association of Hill Farming (IAHF), inaugurated a three-day International Conference on “The Pursuit for Sustainable Hill Farming: Innovations for Profitability and Ecological Balance to Ensure a Future Livelihood (PASEL–2025)” on 21 November 2025 at Pragna Bhawan, Agartala.
        Shri Animesh Debbarma, Hon’ble Minister for Forest, Science, Technology & Environment, Government of Tripura, graced the inaugural session as the Chief Guest and opened the exhibition showcasing technological innovations and success stories in hill agriculture. The event commenced with the lighting of the lamp and rendition of the ICAR Song.
        In his inaugural address, the Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening nature-based agriculture, advancing field-oriented scientific research, and promoting locally relevant innovations for the farming community. Appreciating ICAR Tripura Centre for organizing an international event of this scale in the state, he highlighted the need for developing high-yielding, climate-resilient, and locally adapted varieties for the North Eastern hills. He also underscored the importance of preserving natural quality while introducing new technologies, with special mention of innovations displayed in mushroom cultivation.
        The programme was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Samarendra Hazarika, Director, ICAR RC for NEH Region, Umiam; Prof. (Dr.) R. K. Saha, Vice Chancellor, Techno India University Tripura; Prof. (Dr.) Shyamal Das, Vice Chancellor, Tripura University; and Dr. K. M. Bujarbaruah, Former DDG (Animal Science), ICAR & Former Vice Chancellor, Assam Agricultural University.
        A Souvenir and Book of Abstracts featuring contributions from leading agricultural scientists were released during the ceremony. Shri Jitendra Majumdar, Hon’ble MLA, Kakraban, also addressed the gathering. The Chief Guest presented the IAHF Awards and released several institutional publications of the ICAR Tripura Centre.
        In his concluding remarks, the Hon’ble Minister stressed the need to strengthen farmer–scientist–policy linkages for ensuring a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future for the Northeastern hill ecosystem.
        The conference is being organized under the leadership of Dr. B. U. Choudhury, Head, ICAR Tripura Centre (Convenor), and Dr. Lopamudra Sahoo (Organising Secretary), Principal Scientist, ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Tripura Centre.