Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, Bhagirath Choudhary, visited Noklak on January 16 as part of the fortnight bisit of Union Ministers to the North Eastern Region. The programme was held at the Tourist Lodge, Noklak.
During the visit, the Union Minister interacted with departmental officers to review the developmental progress of the district. He assured that a Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) will be developed in Noklak district to strengthen agricultural extension services and support local farmers.
Mono Khiamniungan, Deputy Commissioner, Noklak presented an overview profile of Noklak district, highlighting its developmental status and key challenges. Vikhoto Richa, Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), shared a detailed overview of the Aspirational Block, Thonoknyu, focusing on ongoing initiatives and future plans.
Officials from the Agriculture and Allied Departments briefed the Union Minister on various projects being implemented in the district and their progress so far. The Agriculture Department also requested the Minister to establish Farmers’ Multi Marketing Complex with storage facilities ensuring better marketing facilities for agricultural produce.
Later, the Union Minister, accompanied by the district administration, visited the District Hospital, Noklak. Dr. Victor, Chief Medical Officer highlighted key concerns faced by the hospital, including shortage of doctors, the prevalence of scrub typhoid as a major disease in the district, and the urgent need for a gynaecologist to improve maternal healthcare services.
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Further, Choudhary, arrived at the Village Guard Museum, New Pangsha village on the following day. Addressing the community, the Union Minister emphasized the urgent need for establishing a Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in the area to enhance agricultural productivity and improve the livelihood of farmers. He advised farmers to apply for the PM-KISAN Credit Card and stated that the growth of farming is fundamental to the overall development of the nation. The Minister inspected the grassroots-level challenges faced by farmers and listened attentively to their grievances. During the interaction, Choudhary enquired whether the government provides financial assistance for damaged crops and sought information on the status of women empowerment in the area. He also raised concerns regarding the prevalence of drug abuse and measures taken for its control.
The Pangsha community also shared their concerns and highlighted the pressing need for modern agricultural machinery to support better and more efficient farming practices.
The Pangsha Public Organization ( PPO) submitted a representation to the Union Minister about Indo Myanmar border concerns and to the salary of the Village Guards.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) is a farm science center established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to provide training, extension, and applied research support to farmers, farm women, rural youth, and extension workers.
