ICAR–NRC on Mithun Medziphema celebrates 38th foundation day

DIMAPUR — The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)–National Research Centre (NRC) on Mithun, Medziphema, celebrated its 38th Foundation Day with participation from scientists, farmers, and dignitaries across the Northeastern region.

According to an update, the celebration was attended by Dr. KM Bujarbaruah, former deputy director general (Animal Science), ICAR; former vice-chancellor, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat; and former director, ICAR–NRC on Mithun, as the chief guest.

The event also had the presence of Dr. Ashis Kumar Samanta, assistant director general (Animal Nutrition and Physiology), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr. Kishore Kumar Baruah, GB member, ICAR, New Delhi; Manjit Niding, executive member (Veterinary Department), North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council, Haflong, Dima Hasao, Assam; and Thenucho Tunyi, former home minister of Nagaland, as guests of honour.

In his welcome address, Dr. Girish Patil S, director, ICAR–NRC on Mithun, highlighted the institute’s journey since its inception and its contributions to Mithun research, breed improvement, and livelihood development in the region. He emphasised the institute’s continued efforts to integrate science, innovation, and field-based interventions to enhance the productivity and sustainability of Mithun farming systems.

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Delivering the foundation day lecture, Dr. Bujarbaruah underscored the significance of livestock, particularly Mithun, in realising the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 through Viksit Pacshudhan. He called for leveraging frontier technologies such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and genomic interventions to create a robust and self-reliant livestock sector that empowers tribal and hill communities.

As part of the occasion, several new publications of the institute were released, documenting recent research achievements and outreach initiatives.

The event also featured award presentations to recognise outstanding contributions by scientists, staff members, and progressive Mithun farmers for their role in promoting Mithun husbandry and rural development.

The programme concluded with a farmer–scientist interaction session, enabling direct dialogue between researchers and Mithun farmers from different states to address field challenges and explore opportunities for collaboration.