The Assam Science Society’s Boko Branch, in collaboration with Jawaharlal Nehru College’s Institution Innovation Council and IQAC, held a two-day workshop on May 11–12, 2026 at the college premises in Boko to mark National Technology Day 2026. The event, themed “Responsible Innovation for Inclusive Growth,” highlighted biotechnology applications in agriculture, weed management and the role of sericulture in regional livelihoods.
The inaugural session on May 11 began with registration at J N College’s Krishna Kanta Sandikoi Hall and the Society’s anthem. Branch President Dhrubajyoti Medhi presided, while Secretary Naba Kumar Nath outlined the workshop’s objectives. College Principal Dr. Tapan Dutta delivered the keynote address on the annual theme, and former secretary Pabitra Kaibarta formally introduced the guests and offered felicitations.
Held under the state-supported program “Digital Platforms for Science Popularization in Assam Villages (2025–26),” the workshop featured technical talks relevant to local agriculture and sericulture. Dr. Mahananda Sutiya, Scientist‑D, Central Silk Board, Tura, spoke on biological control of pests and diseases in sericulture. Agricultural Development Officer Avinash Patgiri addressed integrated pest and weed management for sustainable farming, while Scientist‑D S.A.S. Rahman of the Regional Sericulture Research Centre, Boko, stressed the future importance of muga and eri cultivation and urged youth participation.
More than 100 participants — including teachers, farmers and students — attended the sessions. Dr. Bijaya Deka, Vice‑President of the Society, promoted climate awareness by presenting cloth bags to guests and underlined the need to reduce single‑use plastics. Distinguished attendees included former presidents, coordinators, lifetime members of the Society and faculty from Jawaharlal Nehru College.
On May 12, activities moved to the Regional Sericulture Research Centre, Boko, for field‑based studies. Dr. S.A.S. Rahman expanded on the economic potential of muga silk, tracing pathways from production to entrepreneurship. Participants took part in practical fieldwork, submitted written reflections on their learning, and later received certificates of participation.
The concluding session, led by Dr. Bijaya Deka, featured remarks from senior members Suren Chandra Kalita and Pabitra Kaibarta. The Assam Science Society invited attendees to join as lifetime, general or student members, reiterating its commitment to spreading scientific awareness and combating superstition.
Through the workshop, the Boko Branch reaffirmed its role in promoting sustainable practices, strengthening science outreach in rural Assam, and linking technological knowledge-especially in biotechnology and sericulture-to local economic opportunities.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/national-technology-day-workshop-highlights-innovation-in-agriculture-and-biotechnology-in-boko-1391452-2026-05-13?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-05-13 23:12:00
