Agricultural transformation in northeast India: Challenges, opportunities, and institutional pathways

Abstract

The North Eastern Region (NER) of India, encompassing Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, spans approximately 2,62,179 km2 and is a home to about 45.5 million people. Blessed with abundant biodiversity, fertile soils, and varied agro-climatic conditions, the region holds vast potential for agricultural growth while simultaneously facing enduring developmental challenges. Agriculture remains the backbone of the region, engaging more than 70% of its rural population, yet productivity and market integration lag behind national averages due to constraints such as fragmented landholdings, inadequate
infrastructure, and increasing climate variability. This paper critically examines the challenges, opportunities and institutional pathways shaping agricultural transformation in the NER. It highlights the role of key institutions such as ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Central Agricultural University, Assam Agricultural University, and various National Research Centres and Krishi Vigyan Kendras in advancing research, education, extension, and agrientrepreneurship. Their innovations in integrated and organic farming systems, climate resilient technologies, value addition, and youth engagement have contributed significantly to enhancing
productivity and sustainability. The article concludes that a co-ordinated institutional approach, integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, and strengthening infrastructure and market linkages, is vital for ensuring a climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural future for the region.