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Northeast India Set to Become New Saffron Cultivation Hub
The northeastern region of India is poised to become a significant hub for saffron cultivation, following the successful implementation of the Mission Saffron initiative since 2021. This ambitious project has expanded saffron farming across states like Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya, with large-scale cultivation now underway in Menchukha (Arunachal Pradesh) and Yuksom (Sikkim). Plans are also in place to extend this initiative to Nagaland and Manipur, positioning the Northeast as a prominent player in saffron production alongside Jammu and Kashmir’s Pampore region. The strategy effectively utilizes previously uncultivated land, enhancing agricultural potential without disrupting existing crops.
Foundation Laid for NECTAR’s Permanent Campus in Shillong
In a move to bolster technological and agricultural advancements in the region, the foundation stone for the new permanent campus of the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) was laid in Shillong. This development underscores the government’s commitment to transforming the Northeast through innovation and infrastructure development.
Government’s Commitment to Northeast Development
Over the past decade, the Northeast has witnessed remarkable infrastructural and technological advancements. Initiatives such as expanded road networks, enhanced railway connectivity, and improved aerial transport have significantly increased accessibility to remote areas, fostering economic growth and scientific progress.
NECTAR’s Role in Regional Advancement
Established in 2014, NECTAR operates as an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology. Its mission aligns with fostering self-reliance and innovation in the Northeast. The organization has spearheaded several initiatives, including:
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Promoting saffron cultivation in the Northeast, drawing parallels to the successful lavender cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir.
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Utilizing drone technology for land mapping under the ‘Swamitva’ program.
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Advancing bamboo and honey production to boost local economies.
The upcoming permanent campus in New Shillong is envisioned as a collaborative center of excellence. It will facilitate state-of-the-art technology demonstrations and skill development, addressing socio-economic gaps by integrating indigenous technological solutions for sustainable development.
Specialization and Future Prospects
To achieve nationwide recognition, NECTAR is encouraged to focus on specialized domains within scientific research and application. By developing expertise in specific fields, similar to premier institutes like the IITs, NECTAR can enhance its impact and contribution to the region’s development.
Northeast’s Role in India’s Growth Trajectory
The Northeast is anticipated to play a pivotal role in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047. As India progresses toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy, regions like the Northeast, previously underutilized, are expected to contribute significantly to this growth. The government’s commitment to empowering the Northeast through science, technology, and infrastructural reforms aims to ensure that the region stands on par with the rest of the country in India’s development trajectory.
In conclusion, the Northeast’s emergence as a saffron cultivation hub, coupled with NECTAR’s initiatives, signifies a transformative phase for the region. These developments not only enhance agricultural productivity but also pave the way for technological innovation and economic prosperity in the Northeast.
