Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio champions meritocracy, organic farming at Nerhema festival

KOHIMA — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday said that with meritocracy taking root in Nagaland, jobs are reaching the right and deserving candidates.

He was addressing the second edition of Nerhema Organic Day-cum-Khuvie Nyi (Allium Chinese festival) and inaugurating a multi-utility community hall at Nerhema village.

The festival was organised by the Nerhema Women Organisation in collaboration with the state’s Horticulture department and Nagaland Bio Resource Mission.

According to the organisers, Nerhema farmers harvested 2,495 bunches of Khuvie in 2024, while the number increased to 2,674 this year. The steady growth, they said, reflects both improved farming practices and the resilience of the community.

In his address, Rio said that the festival was a symbol of unity and community strength while keeping traditional practices alive.

He reminded that such events are important not only for cultural preservation but also for improving the economic prospects of farmers and creating stronger ties between producers and consumers.

The chief minister assured to advocate for more support to similar festivals, adding that the government was keen to work in partnership with farmers.

He said that development comes only when communities live in harmony and work together, cautioning that money alone cannot bring progress unless people build with consensus and cooperation.

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Lauding the uniqueness of the event, Rio said that anyone can organise a festival, but dedicating one to "organic" farming was a major achievement.

In today’s health-conscious world, organic products have become a priority, he pointed out. With certification, farmers could secure better markets and higher prices, turning traditional produce into sustainable livelihoods.

He also revealed that the Coffee Board of India, after reviewing plantations in Nagaland, has expressed interest in recognising the state as a “coffee state,” which could open new opportunities for local farmers.

Delivering the keynote, organising committee convenor Kiyasetuo Kengurüse explained that the festival aimed at strengthening farmers’ economic conditions while adopting the principle of "back to the roots."

The celebration, he said, also seeks to build partnerships between rural farmers and urban consumers who increasingly look for organic produce.

Horticulture Director Ayieno Hibo described the festival as a tribute to farmers’ hard work. She stressed the health benefits of Khuvie, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, aids digestion, and strengthens immunity.

The department, she assured, is committed to supporting farmers, including through value-addition programmes that can increase the market potential of Khuvie.

Nagaland Bio Resource Mission team leader Kruolalie Tsürho highlighted the cultural significance of Khuvie, calling it a plant deeply rooted in local tradition and medicine.

He described the festival as “a seed of future innovation and pride of local produce,” crediting farmers with playing a vital role in promoting indigenous crops.