Plant Genetic Diversity Conservation Awareness Programme organized at Nongstoin, West Khasi Hills district Meghalaya.

Under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) NBPGR Regional Station Shillong in collaboration with Nongstoin Social Service Society (NSSS) conducted a “Plant Genetic Diversity Conservation Awareness Programme” at Nongstoin, West Khasi Hills district (Meghalaya) on 9th April 2021. The program was attended by 101 (91 female) Khasi tribal farmers of Nongstoin and surrounding villages. The program started with welcome note by Ms Roselin Mary L. Marshillong, NSSS Staff. Dr. Harish. G.D, Scientist & OIC, RS Shillong, spoke on activities of NBPGR Regional Station Shillong in conserving germplasm of NEH region and “Importance of Plant Genetic Resources (PGR) of NEH Region and their conservation”. Dr. Julius Uchoi, Scientist (Fruit Science), RS Shillong emphasized on “conservation of underutilized fruit crops of NEH region while speaking on “Diversity in fruit crops of NEH region”. Mrs. Badasiewdor Pariong, NSSS staff, demonstrated preparation of Bio-Nutrients & Bio-Pesticides using locally available plant resources. Invited guest shri. Utpal Baruah, DDM, NABARD while making his remarks stressed on value addition of local germplasm to enhance their utility and profitability. Interpretation of all the speeches into Khasi language was done by NSSS staff Mrs. Binolin Syiemlieh & Mr. Wellessly Lyngkhoi. Registration of participants was done by office staff of the regional station Ms.Sara Pradhan (YP-II), Mr. Given Thangkhiew (YP-I) and Ms. Barihun Makri along with NSSS staff. A Local Market cum Exhibition of local crops varieties brought by the participating farmers was organised in the afternoon. Farm kits containing sprayers were distributed to the participants after the programme. The meeting concluded with vote of thanks by Fr. James Anderson Syiemlieh.

(Source:  Dr Harish GD, ICAR-NBPGR, Regional Station Shillong)