In which of the following states of India, was ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) inaugurated in March 2024 for the advancement in agricultural research and development in the north-eastern region through a systematic research, teaching extension?

The correct answer is Assam . Key Points The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Arjun Munda , inaugurated the permanent campus of the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) , Assam, on March 10, 2024 . The institute is located at Gogamukh in the Dhemaji district of Assam . This institute has been named after Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya to honor his contributions to the nation. The foundation stone for this prestigious project was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2017 , highlighting the long-term vision for the North-Eastern region . It is established as a post-graduate institute that integrates systematic research , teaching , and extension to address the specific agricultural challenges of the eight North-Eastern states . The campus spans over 587 acres and is equipped with modern laboratories and research facilities to catalyze the Second Green Revolution in Eastern and North-Eastern India. Additional Information History of IARI: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) , popularly known as the Pusa Institute , was originally established in 1905 at Pusa, Bihar . Following a devastating earthquake in 1934 , the institute was shifted to its current main campus in New Delhi in 1936 . Focus on North-East India: The region is characterized by diverse agro-climatic zones . IARI Assam focuses on climate-resilient agriculture , organic farming , and the development of high-yielding varieties of rice , pulses , and oilseeds suitable for the hilly and plain terrains of the NE states. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): It is an autonomous organization under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) , Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare. Headquartered in New Delhi , it was established on July 16, 1929 . Significance for Assam: Agriculture is the backbone of Assam's economy , with more than 70% of the population dependent on it. The presence of a premier research institute like IARI helps in bridging the gap between lab and land by training local farmers and students. Important Points Institutional Expansion: To decentralize high-end agricultural research, the Government of India has established similar regional hubs, including ICAR-IARI Jharkhand in Hazaribagh , to cater to the specific needs of different geographical belts. Research and Development (R&D): The March 2024 inauguration marks a milestone in achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) in the agriculture sector by focusing on specialty crops like black rice , pineapple , and ginger that have high export potential from the North-East. Educational Impact: By offering M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, the institute aims to create a cadre of agricultural scientists who understand the local biodiversity and traditional farming practices of the region.