Tura, March 23: With an aim to introduce higher secondary science students to emerging career prospects within the agribusiness and food technology sectors, the Department of Agribusiness Management and Food Technology (ABM&FT) of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Tura Campus, organized a one-day awareness program titled ‘Agri-Food Connect’ at Loyola College in Williamnagar in East Garo Hills on Saturday.

The event, themed ‘Bridging Knowledge, Innovation & Opportunities in Agribusiness and Food Technology’, also sought to foster a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship among young people in agriculture.

The program featured Ripamchi N. Sangma, Additional Deputy Commissioner of East Garo Hills, as the Chief Guest. In her address, Sangma underscored agriculture’s pivotal role in India’s economy and encouraged students to explore the vast entrepreneurial and employment opportunities in agricultural fields, highlighting their potential to contribute to sustainable community growth.

Dr. Paras Sharma, a Professor from Mizoram University, delivered an insightful keynote address titled ‘Nutrition and Malnutrition: An Overview’, discussing the importance of balanced nutrition, the roles of micro and macro nutrients, dietary needs, and the impacts of nutrient deficiencies such as stunting, wasting, and obesity.

In his remarks, Prof. Deepak Bhagat, Head of the Department (ABM&FT), highlighted the critical importance of agribusiness and food technology as promising career paths for students. Sister Alphonsa, Vice Principal of Loyola College, also encouraged students to embrace curiosity and explore diverse professional opportunities.

Interactive sessions led by students provided practical demonstrations on detecting food adulterants in everyday items like milk, honey, turmeric, and chili powder. Students also showcased innovative, value-added products such as tamarind candy and tapioca mochi, alongside engaging discussions on food safety, processing, packaging, branding, and marketing strategies for agricultural products.

Dr. R. Sasikumar, Associate Professor at NEHU Tura Campus, led a special session focused on ‘Business Incubation and Entrepreneurship’, detailing how incubation centres support innovation, mitigate startup risks, and stimulate local economic development.

Concluding the event, Dr. Sheena Haorongbam, Assistant Professor at NEHU, commended students for their enthusiasm and encouraged them to think creatively beyond traditional career paths.

Participating students from Loyola College expressed gratitude for the experience, acknowledging how the event expanded their understanding of agricultural and food technology systems and unveiled career options they previously hadn’t considered.

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