Following the success of its apple cultivation pilot project in Mizoram, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research or CSIR is set for another groundbreaking project by introducing high-revenue, low-chilling fruit crops in the Northeastern State.
This initiative, spearheaded by CSIR’s Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology-IHBT, seeks to empower local communities and reduce carbon footprints by fostering local fruit production.
IHBT Senior Principal Scientist Dr Rakesh Kumar hailed the success of the pilot project, emphasizing the positive outcomes observed since its inception in 2022. Encouraged by this achievement, CSIR scientists are now poised to scale up apple cultivation efforts, envisioning it as a sustainable agricultural practice amidst climate change challenges.
Collaborating with local institutions like the Mizoram Science Technology and Innovation Council-MISTIC and the College of Horticulture in Thenzawl, CSIR is strategically identifying potential cultivation sites and conducting training programs to equip farmers with essential skills and knowledge.
Mizoram’s Chemical Engineer and Principal Scientist Dr Mohit Sharma involved in the initiatives highlighted the collaborative efforts aimed at maximizing the region’s agricultural potential. Recent visits to Mizoram enabled CSIR experts to monitor plant growth, conduct training sessions, and foster partnerships with local stakeholders.
CSIR-IHBT Director Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav outlined the broader scope of CSIR’s involvement in Mizoram, emphasizing the multifaceted approach encompassing apple cultivation, mushroom cultivation, and aromatic crop promotion.
In villages like Khanpui, scientists are actively engaging with local farmers, providing hands-on training in various aspects of apple cultivation, from pruning techniques to irrigation management. Through these initiatives, CSIR aims to empower farmers with the tools and knowledge necessary for successful fruit cultivation.
MISTIC senior scientific officer Dr Davy Lalruatliana underscored the strategic significance of these initiatives in enhancing agricultural resilience and fostering sustainable livelihoods in Mizoram.
As CSIR expands its footprint in Mizoram, the initiative holds promise for transforming the region’s agricultural landscape, fostering economic growth, and promoting environmental sustainability.
