Imphal, July 30 (MExN): A two-day National Workshop cum Brainstorming Session on “Unleashing the Hidden Potential of Maize Technology in NEH Region: Status, Options and Strategies” is being organized by ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam in collaboration with ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Ludhiana from July 30 & 31 at ICAR Manipur Centre. The workshop was inaugurated by Y Joykumar Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Manipur. In his address, Y Joykumar Singh, stressed upon the need to undertake efforts to increase cropping intensity in the state by defining suitable alternative crops and conventional rice cultivation, an ICAR press release stated. Highlighting that maize has multi essentials as animal fodder, human consumption and as a sustainable crop, he also mentioned the importance of water resources conservation and tapping the irrigation potential so that baby corn, sweet corn can be cultivated in the region. Dr N Prakash, Director, ICAR RC NEH, Umiam, Dr I Meghachandra Singh, Joint Director, ICAR Manipur Centre, Dr SL Jat, Coordinator, ICAR-IIMR, NEH Maize Programme, Dr MA Ansari, Scientist also graced the occasion and Organizing Secretary along with Joint Directors and Scientists from regional centres of ICAR were present. Dr SL Jat briefed the potentialities of Quality Protein Maize (QPM) and specialty corn for increasing sustainability and livelihood of farmer’s community. He also focused on the needs of varietal introduction in these regions and claimed that NEH region can be “a hub for Organic maize.” Dr N Prakash highlighted the importance of maize in textile, adhesive, corrugating and paper industries as well as animal and fish feeds. Dr I Meghachandra Singh ensured that the workshop will come out with useful recommendations and strategies for enhancing area under maize cultivation in the region. Around 150 farmers from all the districts of Manipur and 50 delegates are participating in the workshop.
