‘Need for enhanced documentation of NE diversity’

SHILLONG: There should be enhanced documentation of diversity encountered in the northeastern region and diagnostic and surveillance measures for trans-boundary, crop and animal diseases should also be ensured, said experts at a programme at ICAR, Umiam, on Wednesday.
A number of contemporary issues on agriculture development in the region were discussed during a one-day meeting that was held by the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), Regional Chapter, Patna for the Assam, West Bengal and North East regions in collaboration with the ICAR Research Complex in Umiam.
The academy strongly suggested that a BSL-III laboratory facility in the region at ICAR Research Complex in Umiam would be of contextual importance in order to intensify efforts to contain the threat of trans-boundary diseases.
A proposal was also made to have more NAAS interactive platforms in the North Eastern Regions in partnership with state governments.
The presentations ranged from the emergence of trans-boundary diseases in the region to crop and animal biodiversity conservation issues.
A suggestion was also made to enhance conservation of indigenous biological resources and to adopt conservation measures.
More than 100 participants from CPGS, ATARI, ICAR RC for NEH Region, Umiam attended the NAAS chapter meet.
NAAS secretary AK Singh was attended the meeting as the chief guest.