Basar, 12 February: In an inspiring initiative under the flagship PM SHRI School programme, 148 students of Classes VIII, X, and XI from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Kombo, West Siang District, undertook an educational exposure visit to the ICAR–Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Basar. Accompanied by faculty members, the students were introduced to cutting-edge agricultural research, climate-resilient farming practices, and diverse career opportunities in agricultural sciences.
        The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Raghuveer Singh, In-charge Head of the Centre, who outlined the mandates, strategic research domains, and key technological interventions undertaken to strengthen hill agriculture. He also conducted a practical demonstration on oyster and button mushroom cultivation, highlighting their role in nutritional security, livelihood diversification, and enhancing farmers’ income under hill farming systems.
        Dr. Sanjay Kumar Pandey, Senior Scientist (Agronomy), provided insights into region-specific agronomic crops and elaborated on the Integrated Farming System (IFS) model implemented at the Centre. He explained how the model improves resource-use efficiency, reduces production risks, and promotes long-term farm sustainability. He further discussed natural farming practices and millet-based production systems within the framework of climate-resilient agriculture.
        Dr. T. Angami, Scientist (Fruit Science), introduced students to horticultural and exotic fruit crops, emphasizing their commercial viability, nutritional value, and potential for diversification in hill agriculture. He also showcased floriculture crops such as tulip, gerbera, gladiolus, and lilium, underlining the expanding scope of flower cultivation in the region.
        Dr. Patu Kate Zeliang, Senior Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding), presented the innovative “Crop Cafeteria” approach, along with strategies for crop diversification and conservation of plant genetic resources. He stressed their importance in enhancing climate resilience, preserving genetic diversity, and supporting adaptive crop improvement programmes.
        The session on livestock and allied sciences was led by Dr. Bali Yomgam, Technical Officer, who elaborated on scientific animal husbandry practices, reproductive management, and the integration of livestock within mixed and integrated farming systems.
        Students were also introduced to the emerging applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drone technologies in modern agriculture, particularly in precision farming, crop monitoring, and smart farm management.
        The educational visit proved highly enriching, significantly enhancing students’ understanding of modern, research-driven, and sustainable agricultural systems. The programme fostered scientific temper and deepened awareness about the vital role of agricultural research and innovation in ensuring food, nutritional, and livelihood security.
        The programme received valuable technical support from Shri N. Das, B. Pait, and Miken Basar.