By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 17: The CAU Regional Agri Fair 2025–26 was inaugurated at the College of Agriculture, Kyrdemkulai, on Monday by Governor CH Vijayashankar, who attended the event as the chief guest. The event was organised by Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, under the theme “Reaching the Last Mile with Agri Revolution – Cultivating Hope One Mile at a Time.”
In his address, Governor Vijayashankar noted that with nearly 70% of India’s population dependent on agriculture, national development is closely linked to farmer welfare.
He described the fair as a celebration of India’s agricultural heritage and acknowledged CAU’s role in promoting technological progress.
Besides Governor Vijayashankar, the ceremony was attended by Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Timothy D Shira; Member of Parliament from Assam, Kamakhya Prasad Tasa; and Principal Secretary to the Governor, HC Chaudhary, as guests of honour. Dr Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of CAU, presided over the function.
Agriculture Minister Timothy D Shira highlighted state schemes that have benefited farmers in Meghalaya. MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa praised CAU’s drone technology initiatives and raised concerns about market access for the North East’s organic produce, urging the university to intensify its support for the region’s agricultural ecosystem.
Vice-Chancellor Dr Anupam Mishra outlined a vision for transforming agriculture in Northeast India by 2047, in line with national initiatives like Viksit Bharat 2047 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
He reported that the fair features 74 stalls from Farmer Producer Organisations and agri-startups, eight live demonstration platforms, and attracted around 1,600 farmers and stakeholders.
The programme also included the inauguration of a boys’ hostel and exhibition stalls, the release of several university publications, and the presentation of the Best Extension Professional Awards.
