In a heartfelt gesture towards strengthening the agricultural and rural landscape of Nagaland, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, inaugurated the new Administrative-cum-Academic Block of the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, a constituent college of the Central Agricultural University (Imphal), at Jalukie. The event was graced by dignitaries including the Governor of Nagaland Shri La. Ganesan, Deputy Chief Minister Shri T. R. Zeliang, and several state ministers and officials, marking a moment of pride for the region.
During his address, Shri Chouhan emphasized the unique potential of Nagaland’s agriculture and livestock sectors, while announcing a substantial assistance package of ₹338.83 crore to bolster agri-development in the state. Encouraging a collaborative approach, he urged the state government to draft a comprehensive action plan and assured unwavering support from the Centre to bring it to fruition.
With genuine concern for the welfare of farmers, the Union Minister proposed the formation of district-wise core scientific teams. These teams—comprising scientists, Krishi Vigyan Kendra experts, university professionals, and farmers—would engage directly with rural communities to identify grassroots challenges and offer practical solutions, thus tailoring policy and technological support to actual needs.
He also spoke passionately about the immense opportunities for natural farming in Nagaland, promising central assistance to expand sustainable agricultural practices. Acknowledging the enthusiasm and innovation among young minds, Shri Chouhan extended an invitation to students of the veterinary college to visit Delhi and share their ideas, assuring financial and institutional support for their entrepreneurial ventures.
His visit included an engaging tour of the Farmers’ Fair and exhibition stalls, where he interacted warmly with local farmers and appreciated their commitment to progress. The event, attended by nearly 640 farmers and over 80 government officials, underscored the importance of direct dialogue and community-driven development.
Governor Shri La. Ganesan commended the efforts of the Central Agricultural University and the college for their contribution to animal healthcare and agricultural advancement in the region. He highlighted the crucial role of scientific thinking and cooperative engagement in achieving the collective goal of a developed India by 2047.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri T. R. Zeliang reiterated the importance of technical innovation and research-led farming to uplift the state’s economy and ensure sustainable growth. The day marked not just the inauguration of a building, but a renewed promise to empower Nagaland’s rural heartland and its people through education, innovation, and enduring support.
