DIMAPUR: A one day Farm Machinery Distribution Programme under the Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), Component 8, for 2026–2027 was held at the District Agriculture Office, Shamator on July 24.
Addressing the gathering as special guest, EAC Shamator Mekato emphasised that farm machinery distributed under SMAM should be viewed not merely as government assistance but as an opportunity to transform agriculture into a sustainable enterprise. He encouraged beneficiaries to use the machinery responsibly, improve productivity and adopt innovative farming practices.
Highlighting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Mekato stated that farmers must become active participants in nation building rather than passive beneficiaries of government schemes. He further encouraged crop diversification, noting that mechanisation can make agriculture more attractive to the younger generation and help reverse rural youth migration.
Mekato also remarked that while the government continues to invest in the agricultural sector through schemes and infrastructure, lasting development is created through the collective efforts of both the government and the farming community. He urged beneficiaries to make the best use of the support extended to them and demonstrate successful outcomes that would inspire greater confidence for future investments in the district.
The programme also featured speeches on behalf of the beneficiaries before the distribution of agricultural machinery to selected farmers. Earlier, the programme was chaired by District Agriculture Officer L. Kivika Chophi. It commenced with an invocation by Tsuponshe, followed by a keynote address by the chairman and a brief note on SMAM presented by Tsulun AI, Programme Officer.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Alex Meyese, SDAO Shamator.
