SHILLONG, MAR 30: A delegation from the state on Tuesday sought the intervention of the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar for setting up of the Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Meghalaya.
State Agriculture Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh along with the Khasi Students Union (KSU) have also submitted separate memorandums on the issue during a meeting held at Vivanta Taj Hotel in Guwahati.
Also present was Congress MP from Shillong Vincent H Pala.
In a statement, KSU general secretary Donald V Thabah said that union has informed the union minister that as per the decision of the previous Central Government to reallocate the proposed CAU to another state, the current government also decided to follow suit.
He said despite the fact that land acquired in Kyrdemkulai of approx 200+ acres by the Central Government, the decision to establish CAU in Meghalaya has been revoked.
“The KSU in this context appeals to the Minister that such a move will deprive the numerous students who are and are interested in pursuing Agricultural and allied courses and also will deny the benefits and schemes to the farmers of the state,” Thabah said.
He further informed that the Union Minister after a thorough discussion and deliberation assured the delegation that the matter will be looked upon and addressed properly.
“The KSU at this juncture demands that a CAU should be set up in the acquired land and the Minister replied that the grievances will be considered by him and he will take up the matter in Delhi,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vincent Pala stated that at present CAU is present only in Manipur, therefore there is an urgent need to set up a CAU in a tribal state, and the best option is Meghalaya since land has already been acquired.
Banteidor stated that he has been meeting officers at various levels and is hopeful that the promised CAU will be fulfilled.
By Our Reporter
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