Imphal, March 23 (NationPress) Manipur's Chief Minister, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture as a fundamental sector for both the state and the nation, advocating for ongoing policy support and growth fueled by innovation.

This statement was made during the closing ceremony of the Agrivision, Agri-Youth Parliament-2026, which took place at the Central Agricultural University in Imphal.

During his visit, Singh toured an exhibition showcasing over 30 stalls, where he engaged with participants, innovators, and young entrepreneurs. He expressed admiration for the creative solutions and agri-focused startups presented by the youth from the Northeastern region.

On this occasion, Singh unveiled a policy document titled “Agricultural Extension Innovations for Achieving US $1.3 Trillion North East India Economy @ 2047 (Shillong Declaration)”, which sets forth a visionary plan for agricultural advancement in the area. The event also featured awards for various competitions and presentations.

Speaking off-the-cuff, Singh mentioned that he had discarded his prepared speech after being inspired by the creativity displayed.

He pointed out that the growing involvement of youth in agriculture marks a positive trend and an increasing enthusiasm for the sector.

With more than 50 percent of the population engaged in agriculture, he highlighted the necessity for enhanced support through targeted interventions. Singh noted that platforms like the Agri-Youth Parliament facilitate connections between young innovators and real-world agricultural challenges, promoting innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.

The Chief Minister further stated that, in collaboration with the Planning Department, the government aims to maximize agricultural opportunities for the youth, particularly within the state's developing startup ecosystem.

Addressing the audience, Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of CAU Imphal, remarked that the Agri-Youth Parliament-2026 united young innovators and stakeholders to discuss the future of agriculture in the Northeast.

He acknowledged that the region possesses significant potential to evolve into a center for high-value, sustainable agriculture driven by research, innovation, and youth-led entrepreneurship. Mishra added that such initiatives are crucial for constructing a future-ready agricultural ecosystem aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

The Agri-Youth Parliament–2026, co-hosted by CAU and Agrivision, functioned as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration, anticipated to bolster sustainable and market-oriented agricultural development in the Northeastern region.

Other notable attendees included Prabha Shankar Shukla, Vice-Chancellor of NEHU Shillong; Kamal Nayan, Zonal Organising Secretary of ABVP; and Vikram Singh Farshwan, National In-charge of Agrivision.