Kezoma Village hosted its second Millet Festival, highlighting millet’s climate resilience, nutritional value and suitability for cultivation on Nagaland’s hilly terrain.
DIMAPUR — Kezoma Village in Kohima district celebrated the second edition of the Millet Festival at Zake Ground, Kezoma, on August 26, with Dr. Zasekuolie Chusi, Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) and Commissioner & Secretary of Agriculture and Land Revenue, as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Chusi stressed the importance of millet cultivation in Nagaland, particularly in view of the crop’s climate resilience and suitability to the State’s hilly terrain, a DIPR report stated.
He said millet, which was once cultivated extensively, has regained global attention because of its ability to withstand changing climatic conditions.
He noted that millet can be cultivated twice a year and is particularly suitable for the hilly slopes of Nagaland, where other crops, especially rice, may not be feasible.
Dr. Chusi further stated that millet can grow well in soils and areas unsuitable for many other crops.
It matures relatively quickly, requires comparatively low inputs and can contribute significantly to food and nutritional security.
In the context of Nagaland, he said, millet is particularly important for its high nutritional value and medicinal benefits.
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Director of Agriculture Sanuzo Nienu said millet is widely consumed as a staple food in many developing countries and is mainly cultivated under dryland conditions.
Often referred to as the “poor man’s food”, millet is commonly grown during the second year of jhum cultivation.
Nienu highlighted that millet is highly nutritious, containing protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals.
He also pointed out that its cultivation is relatively easy, as the crop is largely rain-fed, requires less maintenance, is drought-resistant and matures earlier than many other cereal crops.
The programme was led by Mhasivi Naki, convenor of the organising committee, while Kikrosa Naki, chairman of the Kezoma Village Council, delivered the welcome address.
Kekhrieletuo Yhome, District Agriculture Officer, Kohima, delivered a short speech, while the Kezoma Village Women Society presented a folk tune.
The festival was conceptualised and organised by the Kezoma Village Council in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and its allied sectors.