Phek
Kohima, August 2 (MExN): Recognising the work, resilience and skills of those who play a vital role in the food system, the North East Initiative Development Agency (NEIDA) initiated the ‘Best Farmer Award’ across Nagaland from July 24 till 31 in Tuensang, Kiphire, Tseminyu and Phek districts.
A total of 8 farmers were awarded with a cash prize of Rs 25,000 each for their contributions in innovative and sustainable farming.
In Tuensang, a brief programme was organised by NEIDA on July 24 at Tuensang town to felicitate two progressive farmers from the district. M Namang and Mosha Yanchu were recognised with the award for their piggery and agricultural farming, respectively.
Chongshen, Director of Programs ECS exhorted the farmers, while short speeches were delivered by Akila, DDAO Tuensang, Ebou, BDO and Dr Aojongshi, Department of Animal Health and Veterinary.
In Kiphire, the ‘Best Farmer Award’ programme was held on July 25 at Pungro Town. Welcome note was presented by Tiarenba Imsong, NEIDA Area Manager, followed by short speeches from Imkongyanger Imchen, DDM NABARD Kiphire, Yochung, Senior Veterinary Field Asst. Pungro and chairpersons of cluster level federation from Pungro and Khongsa Blocks.
Vongtsushe from Pungro village was honoured with the Best Farmer Award under agriculture intervention for her achievement in farming. Yelenshe, from Phuvkiu village was also a recipient under piggery category.
The programme was graced by Dr Kikatemjen Ozukum, SDAO Pungro as the guest of honour. He urged NEIDA to continue to support the farmers and further stressed on the importance of farming to preserve and revive indigenous crops to exportable scale and generate income, as well as create employment. He also reminded the farmers to avail Social Security Schemes and use it for improving agriculture progress.
In Tseminyu, the Best Farmer Award Felicitation Program was held on July 29 at Phenwhenyu Village Council Hall, Tseminyu District. The Best Farmer Award was presented to two dedicated and hardworking farmers- Kenile Cheng, an agriculture farmer from Phenwhenyu Village, and Sinhile Seb, a Livestock Entrepreneur from Tseminyu Village, in recognition of their contributions to sustainable farming practices.
Mhathung Ngullie, EAC, Tseminyu graced the event and suggested NEIDA to establish a Food Park in Tseminyu where farmers can sell their produces and people can enjoy organic local foods therein. He also encouraged the farmers to prioritise the cultivation of King Chili which can be a good source of income generation.
In Phek, the ‘Best Farmer Award Felicitation Program’ was held at Pfutsero Town on July 31. Short speeches were delivered by Potsulu Theluo, Agriculture Officer, Pfutsero and Dr. Tshokedu Keyho, Veterinary Surgeon (QCP, Khezhakeno). They highlighted on the significance of agriculture in Nagaland and encouraged the farmers to strive for excellence.
The Best Farmer Award was presented to two outstanding farmers: Rhilo Chiero, a Vegetable Nursery Entrepreneur from Mesulumi Village and Lhiwetsho Wetsah, a Mini-Breeding Unit proprietor from Zapami Village, in recognition of their dedication and contributions to sustainable farming practices.
Rhilo Chiero shared, “I am grateful for the award. It has inspired me to work harder.” He started his journey with support from NEIDA in 2014 and encouraged fellow farmers to remain motivated and goal-oriented. Lhiwetsho Wetsah reflected on his journey since joining NEIDA in 2017, now earning approximately Rs 5 lakhs annually.
Dr Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Head and Senior Scientist, ICAR-KVK Phek, as the guest speaker, emphasised the fertile land of Phek district and its rich biodiversity.
He shared on the collection of germplasm, preservation of indigenous seeds, the importance of traditional storage methods such as keeping seeds above the fireplace, and the importance of Community Seed Banks.
