Union Minister Shivraj S. Chouhan opens new Vet College in Nagaland

Staff Reporter, Guwahati: In a significant boost to veterinary education and rural development in the Northeast, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, inaugurated the new Administrative-cum-Academic Block of the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at Jalukie, under the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal. The event, held in the presence of Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Shri T. R. Zeliang, Rural Development Minister Shri Metsubo Jamir, and CAU Vice Chancellor Dr. Anupam Mishra, marks a milestone in advancing technical education and agricultural infrastructure in the region. In his address, Minister Chouhan announced a substantial financial package of ₹338.83 crore for the development of Nagaland’s agriculture sector. Emphasizing the need for grassroots innovation, he called for the formation of district-level scientific teams comprising university experts, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) officials, and farmers to facilitate regular engagement and problem-solving at the village level. Highlighting the promise of natural farming, Shri Chouhan assured full Central support for sustainable agriculture practices in Nagaland. He also extended an invitation to students of the veterinary college to visit Delhi and present their innovative ideas, pledging assistance for student-led startups and entrepreneurship ventures. The Governor of Nagaland, Shri La. Ganesan, who presided over the ceremony, praised the role of CAU and the college in promoting animal healthcare and agricultural advancement. He underscored the importance of a scientific and cooperative approach among farmers and stakeholders to realize the vision of a developed India—Viksit Bharat—by 2047. Deputy Chief Minister Zeliang echoed these sentiments, pointing out the critical role of research-driven farming in uplifting the state's economy and enhancing productivity. The inaugural ceremony was attended by 639 farmers and 84 officials from both State and Central Government departments.