Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 2: Gabriel D. Wangsu, Arunachal Pradesh’s Minister for Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Fisheries, Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs, and Food & Civil Supply, visited the ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI) Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala to explore advanced agricultural practices and potential collaborations to boost tuber crop production in his state.  
Addressing the institute's senior scientists and officials, Minister Wangsu highlighted the importance of ICAR-CTCRI’s expertise in tuber crop research and its relevance for Arunachal Pradesh’s agriculture. “It’s an inspiring experience to witness the dedication and innovations here. Ensuring that such advancements reach farmers across India, especially in Arunachal Pradesh, is essential,” he said.
Highlighting similarities between Arunachal Pradesh and Kerala, both of which heavily consume cassava, taro, tapioca and yams, Wangsu underscored the growing challenges posed by climate change and global warming. “Global warming is impacting our growth patterns and the future of food security is at stake. Tuber crops could be a vital solution for our people in the long run," Wangsu added.
The Minister called for a structured and extensive partnership with ICAR-CTCRI, suggesting collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and a comprehensive roadmap for the future. “This visit must go beyond formality. It should lead to actionable strategies that raise the business potential of tuber crops in Arunachal Pradesh while ensuring food security for our people,” he asserted.  
The program, themed “Tuber Crops in Agri-Food Systems in Arunachal Pradesh,” featured presentations by Principal and Senior Scientists, showcasing ICAR-CTCRI’s 62 years of achievements. Topics included improved tuber crop varieties, bio-fortified sweet potatoes and yams, and technologies for value-added products like chips and noodles. The discussions also touched on interventions in Arunachal Pradesh’s Anjaw and Lohit districts, where the institute has conducted food festivals and faced unique challenges.  
The delegation toured food processing units and germplasm repositories, observing firsthand the technology and innovations that have transformed tuber crops into commercially viable and sustainable food options.  
Minister Wangsu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to tuber crop development, stating, “The Arunachal Pradesh government is serious about leveraging tuber crops to ensure food security and boost market-driven agricultural activities. Collaboration with ICAR-CTCRI will help us chart the right path for our farmers and our future.”  
This visit forms part of Minister Wangsu’s broader initiative to study advanced agricultural technologies across India, fostering innovation and collaboration to uplift Arunachal Pradesh’s agricultural landscape.

---

Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

<< Back to News List