Namsai, Feb 10: Agriculture minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Monday underscored the importance of breed, seed, and feed in strengthening the farm sector during his day-long tour of agricultural and allied sector facilities in Namsai district.
Wangsu, on the day inspected various facilities, including the Namsai Dairy, Horti Nursery at Kherem, and Farmer Training Centre. He also visited private pig farms in Emphum village, local fisheries farms, and the ongoing bio-fertilizer unit construction at Nanam Khamti village.
The minister stressed the need for collaborative efforts to tackle challenges in fodder, feeds, and seeds, as highlighted by officials during his tour.
“Every upcoming initiative should be data-driven for proper and effective implementation, especially while procuring breed, seed, or feed for our farmers,” he said.
During a review meeting at the deputy commissioner’s conference hall, department heads presented detailed reports on their research activities, achievements, and operational status.
Wangsu emphasized the need for strict quarantine measures on imported products to protect the state's farming sector from diseases. He also called for a more targeted approach in distributing agricultural inputs and tools to ensure farmers receive the necessary resources.
Expressing concern over the declining number of farmers, Wangsu urged officials to identify genuine farmers and attract more young people to agriculture.
He highlighted the need for transparency and fairness in selecting beneficiaries for farmer-centric schemes.
Later, Wangsu attended the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Namsai, where senior scientists and researchers presented their ongoing projects. He stressed the importance of utilizing local germplasm and identifying critical areas requiring intervention.
The minister's visit is part of his ongoing tour across the state to assess regional strengths and challenges in the agricultural sector.