SHILLONG, March 11: As many as 300 farmers from various communities in Jaintia Hills gathered at NEHU to participate in a workshop on ‘Organic and Integrated Farming in Modern Agriculture,’ organised by the Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Community College (DDUCC) and Skill Development Centre, Wahiajer, a constituent Community College of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU).
The workshop featured resource persons who conducted practical demonstrations and interactive sessions, providing hands-on experience in organic and integrated farming techniques alongside modern agricultural practices. Through these sessions, farmers gained valuable insights into the symbiotic relationship between traditional organic methods and cutting-edge technological advancements.
The objective of the programme was to empower farmers through skill development initiatives, enabling them to achieve economic independence and sustainable livelihoods.
Following the workshop, attendees witnessed the much-anticipated inauguration of the ‘Golden Jubilee Community Hall,’ a generous contribution from the Jaintia Hills Cement Manufacturers’ Association (JHCMA).
In his virtual address, NEHU Vice-Chancellor Prof PS Shukla emphasised the crucial role of agriculture in national development. He highlighted the importance of embracing organic farming practices for environmental sustainability.
He also commended DDUCC for its proactive efforts in organising skill-based training programmes, which have transformed the lives of many youth participants. He expressed deep appreciation for the JHCMA’s contribution, recognising its role in fostering an academic environment, particularly within the Wahiajer community.
Concluding his speech, Prof Shukla shared his vision to transform DDUCC into a marketing hub, an initiative that NEHU has been actively working on.
Meanwhile, the president of JHCMA, RK Pareek, while inaugurating the community hall, congratulated the college administration for its achievements and ongoing efforts to empower youth and farmers through skill-based training programmes.
On behalf of JHCMA, he extended his gratitude to all dignitaries, invited guests, resource persons, farmers, staff, students, and attendees for their contributions to the event’s success.
Secretary of Wahiajer village Andriew Sari thanked DDUCC and NEHU for their commitment to organising impactful programmes benefiting youth and farmers in Wahiajer and the Jaintia Hills district. He also expressed gratitude on behalf of the village and the wider Jaintia Hills region to JHCMA for their valuable gift of a community hall. Looking forward to future collaboration, he hoped for continued support from the association.
The programme was chaired by Prof SM Sungoh, Principal In-Charge, DDUCC, in the presence of Prof H Lamin (Retd.), Founder Principal In-Charge, DDUCC, along with members of Wahiajer village, dignitaries from NEHU Shillong, resource persons, farmers, students, staff, and other invited guests.
