Imphal, March 21 (NationPress) Manipur's Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, emphasized on Saturday that the aspiration for a 'Viksit Bharat' is intricately tied to youth empowerment and the revolutionization of agriculture through innovation and entrepreneurship.

During the inauguration of the 'Agri-Youth Parliament-2026' at the Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Imphal, the Governor highlighted that this event acts as an essential platform for engaging youth and stakeholders to collaboratively shape the future of agriculture in the Northeast region.

Pointing out the region's vast potential, Governor Bhalla remarked that the Northeast, and Manipur in particular, boasts an abundance of natural resources, biodiversity, and traditional knowledge systems.

He mentioned that products like Chakhao (black rice), Kachai Lemon, and Tamenglong Orange exemplify the state's rich cultural and ecological heritage.

With the backing of scientific advancements, value addition, and enhanced market access, these products can not only foster rural prosperity but also gain international recognition, the Governor stated.

He underlined the importance of integrating traditional agricultural methods with modern technology, advocating for climate-resilient farming practices, and bolstering infrastructure and market connections, while nurturing an entrepreneurial climate among the youth.

Governor Bhalla expressed optimism that the discussions would yield significant insights and collaborations, ultimately contributing to a more resilient, profitable, and globally competitive agricultural sector.

This event, themed 'Futuristic Agriculture for Northeast Bharat: Sustainability, Innovations, and Opportunities,' spans three days and focuses on cutting-edge research, technological advancements, and innovative strategies in agriculture and related sectors.

Before the inauguration, the Governor, along with CAU Vice-Chancellor Anupam Mishra, toured various exhibition stalls.

He engaged with participants, innovators, and entrepreneurs, praising the showcase of agricultural innovations and indigenous products.

Present at the occasion were CAU Vice-Chancellor, Dipjyoti Rajkhowa from Assam Agricultural University, and other dignitaries.

The event saw vibrant participation from students, academics, researchers, scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

Governor Bhalla also launched a souvenir-cum-abstract book.

The Agri-Youth Parliament-2026 aims to foster dialogue, facilitate knowledge sharing, and encourage collaboration, paving the way for sustainable and inclusive agricultural development in the Northeastern region.