Tripura, 15 May 2025: In a landmark event, the Administrative cum Academic building and Transit Hostel of the College of Horticulture, Thenzawl, Mizoram, a constituent College of Central Agricultural University, Imphal was inaugurated today virtually by Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare as Chief Guest of the function, graced by a grand assembly of dignitaries. The ceremony, attended by approximately 1,500 participants mostly by farmers including officials, technical staff, students, and representatives from various line departments, highlighted the state’s commitment to advancing agricultural education and research.The event also featured an exhibition showcasing the latest horticultural developments, with participation from farmers, various line departments and KVKs.
The distinguished gathering included General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd) virtually presided as President of the function, Governor of Mizoram; ShriLalduhoma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram as Guest of Honour. And,also present were Shri Shri C. Lalsawivunga, Minister of Horticulture and Animal Husbandry as Guest of Honour, Academic luminaries such as Dr. Anupam Mishra, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Central Agricultural University, Imphal; Shri Franklin L. Khobung, the Joint Secretary; the Secretary of Horticulture, Govt. of Mizoram, and the Deputy Commissioner of Serchhip, Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Director of ATARI, Zone VII; Dr. Lalnuntluangi Hmar, the Dean of the College of Veterinary Sciences, CVSc & AH Selesih; and the Dr. Shri Dhar, Dean of the College of Horticulture, Thenzawl, lent gravitas to the occasion.
During the event, Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor, CAU, Imphal, welcomed the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour and the dignitaries present in the function.In his welcome address, Dr. Anupam Mishra extolled Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s transformative contributions to agriculture, notably achieving a 20% growth in Madhya Pradesh during his tenure as Union Minister. He highlighted the challenges encountered during the Rabi season and emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture in India’s aspiration to become a leading global economy. He noted that Shri Chouhan’s vision includes a strategic roadmap aimed at achieving this economic milestone of the country through sustained agricultural development and innovation.
In his opening speech, Shri Lalduhoma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram highlighted that since the establishment of the College of Horticulture in 2016, it has fostered a collective vision to accelerate research in horticulture and agriculture. He noted that the institution is building a platform for change, serving not only as a center for education but also as a seed for transformation. The primary objective is to strengthen agricultural education across the country. This collaboration is envisioned as a national growth initiative, bringing together government bodies and farming communities. He emphasized the importance of fully utilizing this potential.
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, in his opening speech, expressed sincere regret for his inability to attend the inaugural function physically due to severe weather conditions in Assam,however, he committed to come again in Thenzawl. He recentlyannounced the nationwide Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, a campaign aimed at educating and assisting farmers across the country-including those in the Northeastern region on modern agricultural technologies, climate-resilient seed varieties, and improved soil health. The campaign involves teams of agricultural scientists, officials, and progressive farmers conducting outreach meetings in various regions. While Mizoram’s economy relies heavily on agriculture and horticulture, and the government continues to promote digital innovations and sustainable practices. Furthermore, he expressed optimism about Mizoram’s potential in oil palm cultivation, noting that the agro-climatic conditions of the state are conducive to the successful establishment of oil palm plantations.
General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, Hon’ble Governor, expressed gratitude for the Union Minister’s support and highlighted the vast untapped potential of Mizoram’s agricultural sector, observing that 55% of land is suitable for horticultural crops. He lauded the state’s strides toward self-reliance under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative and highlighted the growing global demand for Mizoram’s organic produce, which he believes holds immense promise in international markets.Today’s inauguration of College of Horticulture, marks a significant milestone in Mizoram’s pursuit of agricultural excellence, signaling a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and economic growth through the collective efforts of policymakers, scientists, and farmers.
Dr. Shri Dhar, the Dean of the College of Horticulture (COH), Thenzawl, delivered the vote of thanks. In his address, he expressed sincere gratitude to all the distinguished guests, dignitaries, faculty members, and attendees for their invaluable presence, cooperation and support. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts that made the inauguration successful and highlighted the importance of continued cooperation for the advancement of agricultural education and research in the region. He emphasized the commitment of the college to contribute towards the welfare of farmers and the sustainable development of agriculture in Mizoram and beyond.
