Shivraj Singh Chouhan drops Rs 338 cr boost on Nagaland, calls for scientific farming revolution

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 15, 2025

In a major push for agricultural transformation in Nagaland, Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday inaugurated the new administrative-cum-academic block of the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry under Central Agricultural University, Imphal at Jalukie, Nagaland.

The event, attended by top state leaders including Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, Rural Development Minister Metsubo Jamir, and Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan marked a significant moment for agricultural and veterinary education in the Northeast.

During his speech, Chouhan announced a massive Rs 338.83 crore financial package for agriculture and rural development in Nagaland, urging the state to submit a detailed action plan for effective utilization. He pledged full Central support for boosting local agriculture, rural livelihoods, and farmer welfare.

The Union Minister emphasized the potential of natural farming in Nagaland and proposed the creation of district-level scientific teams—comprising scientists, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) officials, university experts, and farmers—to directly engage with villages twice a month, gathering grassroots feedback to shape policy and tech solutions.

He also interacted with students and extended an open invitation to Delhi for them to share their innovations, promising financial backing for start-ups and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector. “We will walk with you every step of the way,” Chouhan told students, promising to return to Nagaland soon to connect further with farmers and youth.

Earlier in the day, Chouhan visited the Farmers’ Fair and exhibition stalls, engaging directly with farmers and learning about local practices and products.

Governor La. Ganesan, who presided over the event, hailed the role of the Central Agricultural University and its college in advancing animal healthcare and farming innovation. He stressed the importance of science-driven partnerships between farmers, researchers, and stakeholders to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

In his address, Deputy CM Zeliang echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need for research-backed farming and technological intervention to lift Nagaland’s economy.

The event saw a strong turnout of 639 farmers and 84 state and central government officials, underscoring the growing momentum behind agricultural reform in the region.