Dr Neiphrezo Keditsu and others during the 3rd Nerhema Organic Day-cum-Khuvie Nyi at Multi Purpose Hall, Chiephobozou Town on September 9. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 9
The third Nerhema Organic Day-cum-Khuvie Nyi was celebrated at the Multipurpose Hall, Chiephobozou Town, on Wednesday, with Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Nagaland Khadi and Village Industries Board (NKVIB) Dr Neiphrezo Keditsu as the special guest.
The annual event, centred on promoting organic farming and locally cultivated Khuvie (chives), featured a formal programme followed by stalls showcasing agricultural and organic produce.
Addressing the gathering, Keditsu stressed the need to preserve traditional farming practices while adopting sustainable and organic methods of cultivation.
He said organic farming was beneficial for soil health and the environment while also providing opportunities for farmers to produce healthier food and improve their livelihoods.
Highlighting Khuvie as a locally cultivated product, Keditsu encouraged farmers and producers to focus on value addition, packaging, branding and improved marketing to connect local products with wider markets.
He urged farmers, youth and local entrepreneurs to make use of government schemes promoting agriculture, village industries and rural enterprises. Collective efforts by farmers, community organisations and government agencies were also important for creating stronger market linkages, he said.
Keditsu encouraged the younger generation to view agriculture as an avenue for entrepreneurship and innovation rather than merely a traditional occupation, and not limit their aspirations to government employment.
He said promoting indigenous crops and traditional agricultural knowledge could strengthen the local economy while preserving the community's cultural and environmental heritage.
Keditsu congratulated the organisers, farmers and producers for sustaining the event and expressed hope that it would continue to grow as a platform for promoting organic agriculture, local products and economic empowerment of farmers.
The Nerhema Organic Day-cum-Khuvie Nyi was first organised in 2024 to promote organic farming and create awareness and market opportunities for locally grown Khuvie and other agricultural products.
The programme was chaired by Kereikhollie Rülho and began with a prayer by Dziesetuolie Chadi, pastor of BCCT. Kevipusa Kezieo, convener, delivered the keynote address, while Thejaneinuo Kiewhuo presented a special number.
