Vineet Kumar, Wokha DC along with members of CSIR–North East Institute of Science & Technology (NEIST), Jorhat and Anuranjan Singh, Skill Development officer. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | September 12
A one-day Consultative Meeting and Capacity-Building Workshop on the theme “Advancing Agri & Allied Sector Development in Wokha through Science, Technology & Innovation” was jointly organised on September 12 by the District Administration, Wokha, Government of Nagaland, and CSIR–North East Institute of Science & Technology (NEIST), Jorhat, at the DC’s Conference Hall, Wokha.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Virendra M. Tiwari, Director, CSIR-NEIST, underlined the importance of scientific interventions and technology-driven practices in strengthening Wokha’s agri and allied sector for sustainable growth. He stressed on the district’s potential to emerge as a role model in the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic crops, floriculture, and allied activities that could generate employment opportunities for youth and boost the local economy.
Dr Tiwari highlighted the prospects of cultivating chamomile, which can be harvested twice a year, alongside integrated ventures such as honey production from mono-floral sources. He assured that CSIR-NEIST would provide quality planting materials, technical know-how, and market linkages to farmers and entrepreneurs. “From farming to market, the entire value chain will be supported,” he stated, encouraging farmers and stakeholders to adopt innovative practices.
Vineet Kumar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, in his address, expressed appreciation to CSIR-NEIST for extending technical expertise and support to farmers in the district. He emphasised the need for follow-up mechanisms, including accessible technical guidance for farmers even after training programmes. The DC suggested establishing direct contact channels with CSIR-NEIST experts to resolve farmers’ queries and ensure continued handholding.
The workshop was chaired by Anuranjan Singh, Skill Development Officer.
The technical sessions commenced with training on Floriculture – High-Value Flowers (Peony, Ranunculus, Gladiolus, Marigold), conducted by Dr. Sumit Singh and Dr. Pankaj Bharali, Scientists from CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat.
This was followed by a session on Aromatic Crops (Chamomile, Lemongrass, Citronella, Essential Oils) led by Dr Mohan Lal, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat.
Dr Mantu Bhuyan, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat, conducted the training on Beekeeping with focus on honey production, by-products, and integrated beekeeping with floriculture.
An Interaction & Feedback Session along with the valedictory ceremony was held featuring open house discussions, Q&A, recommendations, future planning, vote of thanks, and distribution of planting materials.
