Longleng, February 19: Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ram Nath Thakur visited the ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Longleng, on Thursday to assess ongoing agricultural development initiatives and interact with scientists, extension workers, and farmers on strategies to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen rural livelihoods in the district.
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| MoS Ram Nath Thakur visits ICAR-KVK Longleng, pushes jhum modernisation, water harvesting, women agri-entrepreneurship, flags hospital delay. (Image: DIPR Nagaland) |
The visit formed part of the Union Government’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, enhance farmers’ incomes, and encourage the adoption of modern farming practices suited to the unique geographical and climatic conditions of the Northeast region. During the programme, the Minister reviewed various projects and demonstrations being undertaken by ICAR-KVK to support farming communities in Longleng and neighbouring areas.
Addressing scientists, agricultural experts, and farmers, Thakur highlighted the importance of modernising traditional jhum (shifting) cultivation through the integration of scientifically validated and location-specific technologies. While acknowledging the cultural and historical significance of jhum farming in the region, he stressed the need to gradually introduce low-input, resource-efficient, and climate-resilient agricultural practices that can improve productivity while preserving ecological balance.
The Minister noted that the future of agriculture in hill regions depends on combining indigenous knowledge with modern scientific innovations. He encouraged researchers and extension personnel to continue developing practical solutions that address the challenges faced by farmers in remote and tribal areas.
During the visit, Thakur reviewed demonstrations of low-input crop varieties specifically developed for hill agriculture. He appreciated the efforts being made to identify and promote crop varieties that are adaptable to local conditions and capable of improving yields with minimal resource requirements.
Particular attention was also given to water conservation measures. The Minister commended initiatives aimed at promoting water harvesting structures, including Jal kunds and small-scale rainwater storage systems. He observed that such interventions are crucial for addressing erratic rainfall patterns and moisture stress, which increasingly affect agricultural productivity in the region due to changing climatic conditions.
Emphasising the need to improve farmers' incomes, Thakur called for greater focus on value addition, post-harvest management, and processing of agricultural and horticultural produce. He pointed out that significant losses occur after harvest due to inadequate storage, transportation, and processing facilities. By strengthening these areas, he said, farmers can earn better returns and access broader markets.
The Union Minister also encouraged the promotion of women-led agri-entrepreneurship, describing women as key contributors to rural economies. He urged institutions and government agencies to support women farmers in areas such as food processing, seed production, and allied agricultural enterprises, thereby creating additional livelihood opportunities and enhancing economic self-reliance.
Another important aspect of his address was the conservation of indigenous agricultural resources. Thakur underscored the importance of protecting local germplasm and preserving traditional crop diversity, which he described as valuable assets for food security and climate resilience. He also highlighted the need to safeguard farmers’ rights and ensure fair benefit-sharing mechanisms for local communities that have conserved traditional crop varieties over generations.
The Minister further stressed the importance of stronger coordination among research institutions, extension agencies, and government departments to ensure that proven technologies and successful agricultural practices reach farmers more effectively. He called for enhanced collaboration to accelerate the adoption of innovations in remote and underserved areas.
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Following his visit to ICAR-KVK, Thakur inspected several ongoing development projects in Longleng headquarters, including the NECTAR project at Bautung Government Higher Secondary School and the District Hospital Longleng. During his inspection of the hospital, he expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of construction and urged concerned authorities to expedite the work to ensure timely completion of the facility.
The Union Minister was accompanied by Longleng MLA A. Pongshi Phom, Deputy Commissioner W. Manpai Phom, NCS, senior officials from various government departments, scientists, and representatives of civil society organisations.
The visit highlighted the Centre’s focus on promoting sustainable agricultural development in Nagaland and strengthening support systems for farmers. Officials expressed optimism that the recommendations made during the visit would contribute to improved agricultural productivity, better resource management, and enhanced livelihood opportunities for farming communities across Longleng district and beyond.
