
Droupadi Murmu presenting the Padma Shri in the field of
Agriculture to L Hangthing on Monday. (Photo Courtesy: X @rashtrapatibhvn)
- DIMAPUR — L
Hangthing, a progressive farmer from Noklak district, was conferred the
prestigious Padma Shri award for his pioneering contributions to agriculture,
horticulture, and rural entrepreneurship.
- The honour was presented by the President of India at the
Civil Investiture Ceremony-II held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. The event
was attended by the Vice President of India, Prime Minister, and Union Home
Minister, along with other dignitaries.
- Born on September 23, 1974, Hangthing was recognised for
pioneering modern agricultural practices in Noklak. He was the first person to
establish a plantation nursery in the district, setting up what later became
the Jungyam Nursery & Horticulture Farming Society in 1988. The nursery
introduced several non-native fruits, plants, and vegetables to the region.
- In 2001, he founded the Agro-Revolution Society, aiming to
shift traditional farming methods to a more diversified and sustainable model
by promoting season-based cultivation, livestock integration, and horticulture.
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- In 2018, Hangthing, along with his wife Mongshai and local
farmers, established the Taste of Noklak Society (TONS), producing a range of
organic products under the homegrown brand “Made in Noklak.” By 2021, the
society had launched over 15 products, helping to put Noklak on the
agricultural map beyond its district boundaries.
- The society’s headquarters are located at Jungyam Nursery,
where the majority of its operations are conducted. In addition to his
agricultural initiatives, Hangthing also runs a homestay adjacent to the nursery,
which has been in operation since 2021 and contributes to the district’s
growing appeal as a rural tourism destination.
- In addition to his agricultural initiatives, Hangthing was
awarded the “Best Fish Farmer Award” for Noklak district by the Government of
Nagaland in 2021 for his efforts in promoting fish farming.