Mizoram Launches State-of-the-Art Pesticide Testing Facility to Enhance Food Safety and Agricultural Research

On Monday, November 10, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma inaugurated the Pesticide Residue Analysis Laboratory at the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), located in Selesih, during its 27th Foundation Day celebrations. The inauguration of this laboratory represents a significant milestone for Mizoram, emphasizing the state’s commitment to safe, sustainable, and science-based agriculture. The laboratory is designed to serve primarily as a research hub under the All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues, ensuring that agricultural produce in the region remains free from harmful chemical contamination. This development is aimed at supporting farmers, protecting consumers, and promoting advanced research in agriculture and allied fields.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Mizoram’s Horticulture Minister C. Lalsawivunga and Agriculture Minister P.C. Vanlalruata, who graced the event as Guests of Honour. Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Lalduhoma lauded the college for its 27 years of contributions to higher education, agricultural innovation, and veterinary sciences. He highlighted the institution’s critical role in developing skilled professionals who significantly contribute to agriculture and livestock sectors across the region. Lalduhoma emphasized that the Selesih Veterinary College has grown into a center of excellence benefiting not only Mizoram but the entire Northeastern region of India.

The Chief Minister further underlined the importance of agriculture and animal husbandry in Mizoram’s economy and encouraged students to make the most of the academic and research opportunities provided by the college. He also urged faculty members to continue their dedication to maintaining high standards of education and research. According to Lalduhoma, the newly inaugurated laboratory would strengthen research capabilities, enhance the quality and safety of agricultural produce, and ultimately benefit consumers by ensuring the availability of chemical-free food products.

Established in 1997, the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry currently enrolls 440 students. Over the years, it has produced 891 BVSc & AH graduates, 378 postgraduate scholars, and 15 PhD holders, highlighting the institution’s substantial contribution to professional education and research in the region.

The All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues, under which the new laboratory operates, was initiated by the Government of India in 1985. Its goal is to monitor and research pesticide residues in agricultural produce nationwide to ensure consumer safety. The Selesih Veterinary College was incorporated as one of the Northeast centers of this network in 2010, strengthening the region’s participation in pesticide residue research and food safety initiatives.

To modernize and expand the laboratory, the college secured funding of ₹11.80 crore under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) in 2019, with additional assistance from the Government of Mizoram. This investment facilitated the development of a state-of-the-art laboratory equipped to support advanced research, analysis, and monitoring of pesticide residues in agricultural produce.

The establishment of the Pesticide Residue Analysis Laboratory is a landmark step toward promoting scientific, safe, and sustainable agricultural practices in Mizoram. It underscores the state’s commitment to improving food safety standards, advancing agricultural research, and fostering professional development in agriculture and veterinary sciences, while also contributing to the broader goals of the Northeast region and India as a whole.