The ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna, organized a brainstorming session on the topic “Emerging Opportunities in Livestock and Poultry Sectors in Eastern Region.” The event witnessed the participation of prominent scientists and experts from across the country.
Dr. Anup Das, Director of ICAR-RCER, welcomed the Chief Guest and other dignitaries, and introduced the mandate and key activities of the institute. He also outlined the objectives of the brainstorming session, emphasizing the need to explore new avenues for growth in the livestock and poultry sectors.
Dr. Kamal Sarma, Head of the Division of Livestock and Fisheries Management at ICAR-RCER, presented a brief overview of the division’s recent activities and its contributions to the sustainable management of livestock, poultry, and fisheries in the region.
Following this, Dr. Arnab Sen, Station-in-Charge of IVRI–ERS, Kolkata, stressed the importance of continuous surveillance and monitoring of livestock and poultry diseases to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. He also highlighted the need for a farmer-centric approach, promotion of innovations, wider adoption of technology, and initiatives aimed at enhancing farmers' income.
Dr. Sandeep Ghatak, Head of the Division of Animal and Fisheries Sciences at ICAR-NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, emphasized the significance of integrated farming systems. He called for collaborative efforts among scientists to address challenges faced by farmers, especially in disaster-prone areas. He also highlighted the importance of integrating various government schemes and studying the flow of resources within integrated systems.
The Chief Guest, Dr. A. C. Varshney, Former Vice Chancellor of DUVASU, Mathura, emphasized promoting polyhouse-based food production to ensure year-round availability of high-value produce, thereby improving market prices for farmers. He also underlined the potential of floriculture in the eastern region as a means to boost income and employment.
Furthermore, he proposed the inclusion of high-value crops like dragon fruit and sandalwood to significantly enhance farmers' incomes. Dr. Varshney advocated for a model farming system where farmland is divided into three equal parts: one-third each for routine crops, cash crops, and livestock/poultry/fisheries.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. P. C. Chandra, Principal Scientist, acknowledging the contributions of all participants and reaffirming the institute’s commitment to supporting the agricultural community in the Eastern region.
