Aizawl: Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday inaugurated the newly established Pesticide Residue Analysis Laboratory at the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Selesih, during the institution’s 27th Foundation Day celebration.

Horticulture Minister C. Lalsawivunga and Agriculture Minister PC Vanlalruata attended the event as guests of honour.

Addressing faculty, students, and guests, the Chief Minister underscored the college’s contribution not only to Mizoram but to the wider Northeastern region. He highlighted the growing importance of livestock farming to household incomes in the state and called for the development of skilled professionals in agriculture and animal husbandry.

Lalduhoma urged students to take full advantage of the academic and research opportunities available at the institution and encouraged teachers and staff to continue their commitment to quality education.

Speaking about the newly inaugurated laboratory, the Chief Minister said it would strengthen research under the All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues, benefiting farmers and ensuring agricultural produce from Mizoram remains safe and free from harmful contaminants. The facility, he added, will also serve research scholars and students, promoting safer and more sustainable agricultural practices in the state.

Established in 1997, the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry currently has 440 students enrolled and has so far produced 891 BVSc & AH graduates, 378 postgraduates, and 15 PhD scholars.

The All India Network Project on Pesticide Residues, launched in 1985, focuses on ensuring the safety of agricultural produce across India. Selesih Veterinary College became one of the project’s northeastern centres in 2010. In 2019, the college received Rs. 11.80 crore under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) for facility expansion and upgrades, with continued support from the Mizoram government.