Participants and others during the Liju Federation’s second annual general meeting at the Likya Community Hall in Wokha on May 30.
Morung Express News
Wokha | May 30
The Liju Federation, Wozhuro Block, under the auspices of the Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission (NSRLM), convened its second annual general meeting at the Likya Community Hall in Wokha on May 30.
The event was graced by Dr E Mhonlumi Lotha, Deputy Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Wokha, as the special guest. In her address, Dr Lotha called upon Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to proactively engage with various departmental schemes and resources to enhance their livelihood opportunities. She underscored that farming extends beyond traditional agriculture and encompasses allied sectors such as livestock rearing, fisheries, and apiculture.
Encouraging members from the 11 villages under the Wozhuro Block, Dr Lotha urged a more inclusive approach towards farming practices. She assured participants that the department stands ready to extend technical support and manpower to SHGs wishing to establish farming enterprises.
She further informed the gathering about the availability of artificial insemination services, priced at Rs 500 per semen pouch, and elaborated on central government schemes like CMMFI and PMEGP, which offer loan facilities to support livestock-based ventures.
Addressing concerns over animal health, Dr Lotha highlighted the urgent threat posed by African Swine Fever, a contagious airborne disease currently lacking a vaccine. She stressed the need for strict biosecurity measures, including the maintenance of hygiene, restricted farm access, and immediate reporting of unusual symptoms to veterinary authorities. Proper disposal methods, such as burial with lime, were also advised to mitigate the spread of the virus.
Dr Lotha additionally spoke on rabies, a zoonotic disease, stressing the critical importance of dog vaccination to prevent transmission. She reiterated the department’s commitment to offering training, resources, and ongoing support to SHGs, aimed at boosting sustainable livelihoods and regional development.
Wozhuro Block Development Officer, Rachel Himb, also addressed the audience, praising the progress of SHGs in one of the district’s youngest administrative blocks. She encouraged members to remain proactive, embrace training opportunities, and fully utilise available resources, assuring that the administration would continue to facilitate capacity-building programmes as required.
Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Obendangba, lauded the dedication of SHG members and urged the Cluster Level Federation (CLF) to formally register as a cooperative society, promising the department’s continued support and assistance.
A notable moment of the programme came when Coco SHO Yichani Khuvung, a member of the Tchumeru Village Level Organisation (VLO), shared her inspiring journey. With financial aid from her SHG, she was able to secure a loan which allowed her to launch a piggery and poultry business, along with a banana plantation project. Today, over 1,000 banana trees are fruiting and ready for market. Her SHG’s support also proved vital during personal health crises and in covering her children’s school fees—who are now close to completing their education.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony, recognising excellence among SHGs and individuals for their contributions. Mangasa VLO from Pongidong village was named Best VLO, while Myanta SHG from Totsu village received the Best SHG award. Other honours included Best VF cum MBK awarded to Lily Odyuo from Khumtsu village, Best CSP to Yanbano M Ovung from New Longchum village, and Best CRP-EP to Chanchibeni, also from Khumtsu village.
