Empowering women farmers in Nagaland

Mhathung Yanthan and others during 25 Years commemoration of Women in Agriculture on December 11 in Kohima.

Mhathung Yanthan and others during 25 Years commemoration of Women in Agriculture on December 11 in Kohima.

Kohima, December 12 (MExN): The Department of Agriculture has  celebrated the 25 Years commemoration of Women in Agriculture at the Directorate of Agriculture Kohima on December 11.

The event honoured the remarkable contributions, resilience, and leadership of women farmers and Self Help Groups (SHGs) who have significantly strengthened agricultural growth and rural livelihoods across the state.

Nagaland’s agriculture advisor Mhathung Yanthan congratulated the women farmers and SHGs and lauded their commitment, innovation, and perseverance in advancing community-based agriculture.

He encouraged women’s groups to continue leading agri-entrepreneurship, value addition, and sustainable farming initiatives, reaffirming the Government’s support for women-led development.

Rongseninla Aier, Retired Director of Agriculture and pioneer of the Women in Agriculture Programme, delivered a reflective address, reminiscing on the inception of the programme in 2000 and its transformative journey over the past 25 years.

The programme witnessed participation from 17 SHGs representing all 17 districts, who showcased a wide range of locally produced agricultural products under Mahila Ghosti, reflecting the creativity, enterprise, and diverse agro-ecological strengths of women farmers across the state.

A key highlight of the event was the release of “Farmerette” – the Souvenir Magazine commemorating 25 years of the Women in Agriculture initiative. The gathering also viewed a special documentary film titled Women in Agriculture - 25 years Journey of a Farmerette produced by Take One Production, capturing the inspiring journey, milestones, and voices of women farmers over the last two decades.

Two women farmers- LahienuoMetseio of Chiechama village and Posanu Mekro of Kezoma village, shared heartfelt testimonials, offering personal insights into their experiences, challenges, and achievements through the programme.

Sanuzo Nienu. Director of Agriculture appreciated the unwavering spirit and contributions of women farmers.

Khrieseno Kikhi, Deputy Director thanked the participants, partners, and pioneers who shaped the journey of Women in Agriculture.

Over the period 2000–2025, the Women in Agriculture Programme has empowered 348 SHGs, comprising 5,454 women members, and has positively impacted 256 villages across Nagaland—marking a significant milestone in inclusive agricultural development.



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