ITANAGAR : The NETRA Foundation, in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), organised a 10-day National Orientation Programme on Northeast India Development under the theme “Know Your Northeast”, bringing together academicians, policymakers, researchers and development practitioners from across the country.
The online programme, held from June 15 to 26, witnessed participation from 105 delegates representing central and state universities, research institutions, government departments, civil society organisations and other institutions, the organisers said.
Inaugurating the programme, RGU vice-chancellor Prof S K Nayak said Northeast India possesses immense potential in terms of natural resources, cultural diversity, strategic importance and human capital. He urged young scholars to undertake evidence-based research to promote sustainable and inclusive development in the region.
RGU Registrar Dr N T Rikam reaffirmed the university’s commitment to promoting research and academic collaborations focusing on Northeast India, while former North Eastern Council health adviser Dr Bamin Tada stressed the need for interdisciplinary engagement to address the region’s developmental challenges.
NETRA president Dr Kanak Haloi said the initiative aimed to build informed perspectives on Northeast India and reflected the organisation’s commitment to academic excellence and regional development.
Over the course of the programme, experts from leading institutions delivered lectures on issues including education and skill development, agriculture and rural economy, investment, employment, tourism, gender, entrepreneurship, border management, health, infrastructure, climate change, natural resource management, handloom and handicrafts, human development and sustainable development goals.
The sessions were addressed by faculty members and experts from institutions including Rajiv Gandhi University, North-Eastern Hill University, Nagaland University, Sikkim University, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, National Academy of RUDSETI and other academic organisations.
NETRA secretary Prof Jayanta Choudhury said the programme reflected the organisation’s vision of promoting research, knowledge-sharing and policy dialogue for the sustainable development of Northeast India. He expressed hope that it would encourage young researchers and development professionals to contribute to the region’s inclusive growth.
The programme concluded with an interactive valedictory session, during which participants shared their experiences and were awarded e-certificates upon successful completion.
