CM notes increasing youth participation in agriculture sector

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Mar 23: Increasing youth participation in agriculture reflects a positive shift and a growing interest in the sector, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said as he addressed the closing function of the Agrivision Agri-Youth Parliament – 2026 at the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal today.
Agriculture remains a key sector for both the State and the country. The State Government will explore ways to boost agriculture and youth participation in the sector through the start-up ecosystem, he said.
The 3-day Agrivision Agri-Youth Parliament – 2026 was held under the theme ‘Futuristic Agriculture for North East Bharat: Sustainability, Innovations and Opportunities.’
During the event today, the Chief Minister inspected more than 30 stalls opened at the venue, and interacted with the participants, innovators, and young entrepreneurs. He appreciated their innovative ideas, technological solutions, and agri-based start-up models showcased by youths.
He released a policy document titled “Agricultural Extension Innovations for Achieving US $1.3 Trillion North East India Economy @ 2047 (Shillong Declaration)”, highlighting a future-ready roadmap for agricultural transformation in the region.
Addressing the closing function, Yumnam Khemchand said the participation of "our youths" in agriculture reflects a positive shift and a growing interest in the sector.
He noted that 58% of India's population is engaged in agriculture, and emphasised that greater focus must be given to strengthening the sector.
Highlighting the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship, he said that platforms such as the Agri-Youth Parliament provide an opportunity to harness the potential of young minds and resolve real-world challenges of today.
In consultation with the Planning Department, the State Government will explore ways to boost agriculture and youth participation in the sector through the start-up ecosystem, he said.
He added agriculture remains a key sector for both the State and the country which require sustained attention and policy support.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor, CAU, Imphal, highlighted that the Agri-Youth Parliament–2026 brought together bright young minds, innovators, and stakeholders to deliberate on the future of agriculture in the North East.
He stated that the region holds immense potential to emerge as a hub for high-value and sustainable agriculture, supported by innovation, research, and youth-driven entrepreneurship.
He emphasised that initiatives such as the event contribute to building a future-ready agricultural ecosystem aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The Agri-Youth Parliament–2026 was jointly organised by CAU and Agrivision. It aimed at strengthening sustainable and market-led agricultural development in the Northeastern region.
Prizes were distributed to winners of various competitions and presentations held during the event.
Dr Prabha Shankar Shukla, Vice-Chancellor, NEHU Shillong; Kamal Nayan, zonal organising secretary, ABVP; Vikram Singh Farshwan, National in-charge, Agrivision; Dr Amit Goswami, National Advisory Council Member, Agrivision; Prof K Nandini Devi, Dean, COA, CAU; Prof Indira Sarangthem, organising secretary; and Dr Jeti Konsam, co-organising secretary, among others were present in the event.