HT Correspondent
JORHAT, Nov 22: The Assam Rice Research Institute, Titabor, marked the conclusion of its year-long centenary celebrations with a three-day international symposium on “Preparing the Next Generation for Food Security and Environmental Sustainability.” The event, attended by over 500 renowned agricultural scientists from around the world, took place at the Madhab Chandra Das Memorial Auditorium of Assam Agricultural University.
The symposium was inaugurated by Trilochan Mahapatra, Chairman of the Plant Protection Variety and Farmers’ Rights Act, Government of India. Dr. Mahapatra emphasized the importance of building a sustainable food system through the proper use of food resources. He highlighted the need for agricultural practices that align with changes in nature and improve production to profitable levels while maintaining a natural balance. Dr. Mahapatra also stressed the importance of raising awareness regarding the adverse health effects of excessive use of chemicals and pesticides in agriculture.
Dr. Bidyut Chandan Deka, Vice-Chancellor of Assam Agricultural University, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the role of rice in the agricultural economy of Assam and the university’s initiatives in rice research.
Speakers at the event included Dr. Uday Shekhar Nagatho, Director of the Norwegian Center for International Development, Beate Langset, Counsellor of Climate and Environment Council at the Embassy of Norway, New Delhi, and Dr. Rabe Yahaya, Director of the International Rice Research Institute.
During the symposium, a souvenir was released, and three books written by rice experts—Dr. Prasanna Kumar Pathak, Dr. Kishore Kumar Sharma, and Dr. Arun Kumar Pathak—were also launched. The books include “Hundred Years of Rice Research,” the ebook “Rice Culture and Research in Assam,” and “Abstract Book.”
