Union Minister Nityanand Rai highlights organic farming potential and reviews key government schemes in Mokokchung.
MOKOKCHUNG — Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai has asserted that agriculture continues to be one of the most vital sectors for Nagaland’s economy, noting that hill states like Nagaland possess immense potential for organic farming while highlighting the urgent need to strengthen marketing infrastructure.
The minister made these remarks while addressing a review meeting with heads of departments and offices under the Mokokchung district at the deputy commissioner’s (DC) conference hall on June 6.
Rai observed that Nagaland enjoys naturally favourable conditions for organic agriculture and has already achieved notable progress in the field. He urged departments to actively encourage farmers to adopt organic cultivation practices and to promote agro-based industries that could generate employment and add value to local produce.
“We must focus on processing, branding, and marketing these products so that farmers receive better returns,” he asserted.
He pointed out that while Mandi committees have been formed, they require stronger infrastructure and improved connectivity. “Marketing infrastructure also requires improvement,” the minister added.
He further opined that alongside boosting production, equal weight must be placed on quality, branding, and promotion, supported by better transport facilities, including enhanced railway connectivity, to help farmers access wider markets.
Rai clarified that the purpose of such review meetings is not merely to point out shortcomings but to assess progress, identify challenges, and formulate effective strategies for the future.
He directed departments to regularly monitor production levels, market demand, and expansion opportunities to ensure planned and sustained development.
Reviews health, education and infrastructure
During the meeting, the Minister also shared his experience visiting Dr. Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), where he learned that a large number of people are availing Ayush services.
He reviewed developments in the health sector and other key departments, noting shortages of doctors and staff at IMDH. He mentioned that the DC Mokokchung has already taken up the matter with the state government.
“We also examined areas where support from the Central government could further strengthen public services,” he added.
Rai commended Mokokchung’s literacy rate of around 93 per cent but called for identifying the reasons why the remaining population remains outside the education system.
“Whether the causes are economic, geographical, or social, we must address them through proper planning so that education reaches everyone,” he said.
The Minister reviewed the implementation of both central and state government schemes, reiterating the need to ensure their benefits reach every eligible citizen.
On flagship programmes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission, he acknowledged considerable progress but reminded officials that the goal is complete saturation so that every eligible household benefits.
He also called for strengthening Anganwadi centres across Nagaland, describing them as vital for delivering nutrition, healthcare, and welfare services. Many central and state programmes are linked to these centres, he said, and urged officials to enhance their effectiveness to reach every eligible beneficiary.
On infrastructure and development, Rai highlighted that quality must never be compromised.
“If quality is compromised, public assets deteriorate quickly, resulting in unnecessary expenditure,” he warned, adding that quality control and regular maintenance should remain top priorities for every department.
Advocates skill development
Turning to youth empowerment, the minister advocated for skill development alongside traditional occupations. He called for effective coordination between the Prime Minister’s skill development initiatives and the state government’s skill missions to better align with industry needs and create greater employment opportunities.
He also praised Nagaland’s rich traditional craftsmanship, including woodwork, handicrafts, and cultural products, urging better marketing and branding to unlock their full potential. Similarly, he highlighted the opportunities in sports for the youth of the Northeast and called for greater encouragement to the sector.