New pesticide testing lab opened in Mizoram to ensure safe agricultural produce
Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday inaugurated a pesticide residue analysis laboratory, a facility for monitoring and ensuring clean and safe agricultural produce, at the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, in Selesih near Aizawl.
The inauguration coincided with the foundation day of the college.
Speaking on the occasion, Lalduhoma said that the majority of Mizoram’s population is heavily dependent on agriculture, with livestock farming in particular being of great importance to the livelihoods of many households.
He added that knowledge and skills in livestock rearing and management are important needs of the people, and the veterinary college plays a vital role in nurturing professionals who can support farmers and the agriculture sector.
The Chief Minister said the newly inaugurated laboratory will facilitate not only research under the All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues but will also benefit farmers and help ensure that agricultural products in Mizoram are clean and safe for consumption.
Describing the facility as an important step toward ensuring healthier and more sustainable agricultural practices in Mizoram, Lalduhoma said it will also be useful for research scholars and students.
The event was attended by State Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister C. Lalsawivunga.
Since its inception, the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, has produced 891 graduates, 378 postgraduates, and 15 PhD scholars.
The college currently has 440 students.
The Centre initiated the All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues in 1985 to ensure safe and clean agricultural produce, and it operates various centres across the country.
In 2010, officials included Selesih Veterinary College as one of the centres for the northeastern region.
In 2019, to expand and upgrade the facility, the college secured a project worth Rs. 11.80 crore under the RKVY scheme through the state government, which continued to support the project until its completion, they added.