Shillong: The ICAR Research Complex for the North Eastern Hill (NEH) Region has intensified its outreach to farmers by leveraging social media platforms to share scientific knowledge in agriculture, horticulture, animal sciences, fisheries, agroforestry, and related fields.
The initiative aims to equip farmers with practical, research-based solutions to boost production and productivity across the region.
The institute’s official YouTube channel, ICAR RC NEH Podcast, has drawn over 2,070 subscribers, including farmers, extension workers, researchers, and academicians.
Since its launch in February 2025, the channel has uploaded 28 expert-led videos that have collectively garnered more than 61,000 views.
The content covers a range of topics—from managing livestock diseases and controlling crop pests to adopting climate-resilient farming practices and selecting suitable machinery for hilly terrains.
Director Dr. S. Hazarika said the institute plans to upload at least two videos weekly, ensuring farmers and stakeholders receive timely, relevant information.
Head of the Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, Dr. B.P. Singh, highlighted that the podcasts are designed to address pressing challenges faced by farmers, including soil acidity and organic farming techniques.
To make the content more accessible, ICAR NEH has partnered with the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department of Meghalaya for Khasi-language translations.
Assistant Director (Piggery) Dr. David T. Sun has been tasked with translating and recording the material in Khasi, in addition to versions available in English and Hindi.
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Beyond YouTube, the institute has established a Facebook page with around 3,000 followers and an Instagram account (@icar_rc_neh_umiam) with 282 followers.
These platforms provide daily updates on cultivation methods, animal husbandry, and organic farming practices, while also encouraging youth participation and entrepreneurship in agriculture.
According to ICAR NEH, these digital initiatives are part of a broader vision to bring scientific expertise directly to farmers’ doorsteps, helping them improve efficiency, reduce losses, and explore innovative, sustainable farming models.
