Our Correspondent
Mokokchung, Nov. 14 (EMN): Twenty two farmers from 11 districts, who underwent National Integration Tour (NIT) to Himachal Pradesh under the supervision of Major Gulshan Kumar on November 2 have return on November 13.
The tour to Solan and Shimla in Himachal Pradesh was mainly focused on integrating the distinct cultural and social ethos and to familiarise farmers from remote areas of Northeast to agricultural advancements in Himachal Pradesh which share similar terrain and climatic conditions. The tour was organised by 44 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N).
A reception programme was held for the tour contingent at 44 AR auditoriums with Brig. MS Sidhu, IGAR 7 Sector (N), on November 14. The event was attended by officials from district administration, representatives from AKM, ANCSU, NGOs and rank and files of 44 Assam Rifles.
Addressing the reception programme, the Brigadier stated that the military, apart from providing security to the people, has a social obligation to bring peace and tranquillity in the region. In this regard, he said the military have started civic action programme in the form of free medical clinic, veterinary clinic and exposure tour etc.
Stating that northeast has a diverse culture, Brig. Sidhu asserted that the only thing needed was to change its focus towards progress and prosperity. He has also stressed on the need to conserve the rich flora and fauna.
He further urged the farmer to carry out workshop in their locality and share their experiences, knowledge and information which they learned during the tour to their fellow farmers.
During the tour, farmers have visited Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Solan, where they were imparted knowledge on kiwi farming. At the visit to Regional Horticulture Research Station in Mashobra, the farmers were briefed about various species of apples by the experts and the specific species of apple suitable for Northeast region.
The team also visited Central Potato Research Institute at Shimla, where they were enlightened about various types of potatoes specifically on the type of potatoes suitable for Northeast region. The famers also had interaction with the commander of Army Training Command in Shimla on November 9.
SDO (C) Mokokchung, Lemlila Sangtam; Assistant SP Mokokchung Aelo T Aye; AKM vice president Sunglem; ANCSU president and representatives from the tour party spoke at the event.
