Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Nagpur: In a proud and memorable moment, an organic gift hamper was presented to Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, and Dr. Dillip Ghosh, Director, ICAR–Central Citrus Research Institute (CCRI), Nagpur, during the National Workshop on the Clean Plant Programme for Citrus held at ICAR–CCRI, Nagpur today.
The gift hamper was presented by Dr. K. Devdutta Sharma, Director of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Government of Manipur.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. K. Devdutta Sharma highlighted Manipur’s GI-tagged citrus varieties. He emphasized the uniqueness, quality, and market potential of Manipur citrus, and called for greater support for clean planting material and organic practices to boost horticulture in the Northeastern region.
He further stated that no plant would be eligible to be supplied unless they possess certification of Clean Plant SOP, because the quality of planting materials determines productivity, quality, and farmer’s income.
The event celebrated innovation, collaboration, and sustainable horticultural development, with a special focus on promoting disease-free planting material across the country.
Shri Nitin Gadkari addressed the gathering and underlined the importance of clean plant material for improving productivity and farmer income. Dr. Dillip Ghosh spoke about CCRI’s role in implementing the Clean Plant Programme and advancing research for citrus health and sustainability.
Scientists, researchers, officials, and stakeholders from across the country participated in the workshop.
