Farmers with soil health cards and bio-enriched organic manure during the World Soil Day 2025 programme at the District Soil Conservation Office, Mokokchung on December 5.
DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 5 (MExN): World Soil Day 2025, under the theme “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities,” was observed on December 5 in Kohima and Mokokchung.
In Kohima, the programme was held at the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Soil & Water Conservation. The programme was chaired by Rontilo Kent, Joint Director, and the invocation was pronounced by Adwalie, ASSO. Officials noted that the day is marked annually to promote the sustainable management of soil resources.
Delivering the keynote address, A. S. Hovuto, Additional Director, spoke on the significance and effective use of Soil Health Cards. Reflecting on the theme, he stated that soil is not only the foundation of agriculture and rural landscapes but also “the quiet engine that sustains urban life.” He added that soil remains a silent yet essential partner in fostering the health, resilience and sustainability of cities.
A speech on behalf of farmers was delivered by Thepfukho from Mitelephe village. He stated that through Soil Health Cards, where soils are scientifically tested and their fertility status clearly indicated, farmers now have greater confidence in selecting crops best suited to their soil conditions. He maintained that having knowledge of one’s own soil is empowering, enabling farmers to make informed decisions that enhance productivity and sustainability.
Soil Health Cards were distributed to farmers from more than ten villages under Kohima district by Renthunglo Tungoe, DSCO Kohima. Soil Health Cards for beneficiaries under the Natural Farming initiative were also handed over to District Agriculture Officials. A toll-free number, +917965192504, has been made available for farmers to seek assistance and make queries related to soil health and associated services. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Khroteu Ritse, followed by the reading of a pledge to conserve and preserve soil.
In Mokokchung, the District Soil Conservation Office and Krishi Vigyan Kendra Mokokchung jointly organised a Soil Health Camp with farmers from five villages at the DSCO conference hall. The programme was led by Ruokuosietuo, District Soil Conservation Officer Mokokchung, who stated that soil is the basis of life for all and that the day holds great significance for farmers and departments alike.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Keviletsu Khate, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Mokokchung, highlighted agricultural practices in the district that degrade soil quality. He encouraged farmers to improve soil health to enhance productivity and discouraged the use of common salt, weedicides and pesticides.
Videos from the World Soil Day 2025 “Soil in a Minute” contest were shown for better understanding of the theme. Soil Health Cards were distributed to five villages, and bio-enriched organic manure was provided to the participants. Technical sessions were conducted by Imtilemla, ACTO Soil Conservation, and Amongla, Soil Conservation Assistant, DSCO Mokokchung. Altogether, 39 participants attended the programme, which concluded with the distribution of organic inputs.
