ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Assam successfully organized Kisan Mela 2026 on 28 February 2026 at its campus in Dirpai Chapori, Gogamukh, Dhemaji, under the theme “Natural Farming for Sustainable Farming.” The mega event witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 1,500 farmers, farm women, rural youth, extension personnel, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across the North Eastern Hill (NEH) region. The programme included 32 exhibition stalls, including stalls from Assam, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh and other states which showcased natural farming technologies, organic inputs, millet-based innovations, farm mechanization tools, value-added products, and drudgery-reduction technologies.
Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director and Patron, delivered the welcome address and emphasized the role of natural farming in ensuring ecological sustainability and enhancing farmers’ income. He reiterated the Institute’s commitment to strengthening agriculture across the North-East region. Dr. L.K. Baishya, Head (NRM) and Chairman of the Kisan Mela, presented an overview of the event, while Dr. A.K. Balange, CIC & Head (APF) and Convener, highlighted major achievements and initiatives of the Institute. Institute publications were released during the programme.
The event was graced by Shri Narendra Shivaji Patel, Hon’ble Minister of State for Public Health and Medical Education, Government of Madhya Pradesh; Shri Krishnakantha Borah, Sangathan Mantri, North East, Bharatiya Kisan Sangha; Shri Rahul Javir, IAS, District Commissioner, Dhemaji; and Shri Jadav Pegu, ACS, Principal Secretary, Mising Autonomous Council. They appreciated the farmer-centric initiatives of IARI Assam and encouraged adoption of scientific and sustainable farming practices. They emphasized the importance of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), value addition, and community participation in agricultural development.
The Chief Guest, Shri Ranoj Pegu, Hon’ble Minister of Education and Welfare of Plain Tribe and Backward Classes, Government of Assam, lauded the efforts of ICAR–IARI, Assam in promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture. He highlighted the opportunities created by IARI Assam for local youth to pursue diploma programmes and establish agri-startups. He encouraged farmers to actively participate in such fairs and community plantation drives and appreciated the dedication of scientists and students in improving the socio-economic status of farmers in the region.
The programme included felicitation of innovative farmers and symbolic distribution of agricultural inputs. The post-lunch Farmers–Scientist Interaction Session enabled direct dialogue on crop production, natural farming practices, millet mechanization, and sustainable technologies. Kisan Mela 2026 served as a vibrant platform for technology dissemination, strengthening farmer–scientist linkages, and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the NEH region.