The College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences (CPGSAS) in Umiam, operating under the Central Agricultural University based in Imphal, marked a significant celebration of indigenous culture and achievement on November 15. The institution, located in Meghalaya's picturesque Ri-Bhoi district, organized special events to honor Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, paying tribute to India's diverse tribal communities.
Tribal Heritage Takes Center Stage
Through a series of engaging seminars and vibrant cultural performances, the event highlighted the substantial contributions and resilient leadership demonstrated by tribal communities across India. The program successfully showcased the rich cultural tapestry that tribal populations have woven into the nation's identity.
Anupam Mishra, serving as vice-chancellor of Central Agricultural University, joined Professor Dwipendra Thakuria, dean of CPGSAS, in emphasizing the profound importance of the day. Both academic leaders stressed how the celebration honors the enduring legacy of tribal communities while reinforcing the institution's unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community welfare.
Agriculture's Role in National Development
The event featured an insightful address by KN Raghunandan, who holds the position of organising secretary at Vidya Bharati Uchcha Shiksha Sansthan. His presentation focused sharply on agriculture's crucial function in driving national progress. He elaborated on how this vital sector powers India's economic engine through continuous innovation, technological adoption, and comprehensive rural transformation.
A particularly memorable moment occurred when CPGSAS honored two exceptional personalities from Meghalaya. The institution presented felicitations to Padmashree Trinity Saioo, recognized nationally for her groundbreaking work in promoting Lakadong turmeric, and Margaret Pathaw, an accomplished arms wrestler who has represented India at national competitions.
Youth Festival Promotes Talent and Unity
Simultaneously, the CPGSAS campus in Umiam launched the 9th Inter-Collegiate Youth Festival-cum-Games & Sports Meet 2025 on November 15. This dynamic three-day event, scheduled to conclude on November 17, has attracted enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, and administrative officials representing all 13 constituent campuses of Central Agricultural University.
The youth festival serves as a vibrant platform celebrating young talent, competitive sportsmanship, and cultural harmony. The gathering powerfully underscores the value of extracurricular activities in developing well-rounded agricultural professionals equipped for tomorrow's challenges.
Through these concurrent events, CPGSAS demonstrated its holistic approach to education—honoring traditional wisdom while nurturing contemporary skills and unity among India's future agricultural leaders.
