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Mhathung Yanthan, along with the director of horticulture and the promoters of the farm at the launching of strawberry field project in Punglwa village on July 21. (EM Images)[/caption]
Dimapur, July 21 (EMN): Considering that horticulture and agriculture sectors have the potential to improve the state’s economy and solve unemployment problem, advisor for Horticulture Mhathung Yanthan today said the government is contemplating to change the marketing policy in tune with the changing time.
Inaugurating the strawberry field project at Teshora Integrated Farm in Punglwa village under Peren district, Yanthan, who was the special invitee, said the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government is giving prior importance in horticulture and agriculture sectors in addressing the twin problems.
Admitting that poor marketing facility is one factor which is driving people away from farming, Yanthan said the government is trying its best to improve marketing facility and promote export of surplus production.
Also pointing out that climate change has become a reality, he advised the farmers to adopt modern scientific technology to improve productivity. Yanthan remarked that ‘Nagaland is a land of opportunities’ for those who are willing to work. He, therefore, advised the farmers to work with sincerity and be self-reliant.
He has further congratulated two women promoters namely Lopilo and Yamna Matchen for the initiative to start the integrated farm and their service towards humanity.
Director of Horticulture, Elithung Lotha exhorted that with the endowment of suitable climatic condition and fertility of soil Nagas should build their strength towards economic empowerment.
According to him, the real meaning of employment is engaging in farming activities.
SDAO Dimapur, Ronchamo Kikon, has also enlightened the gathering on the soil fertility of Nagaland. He has appreciated the ideal location of the farm which has good irrigation facility and accessibility to markets.
In a keynote address, Lopilo said the strawberry field project would commence in early September. According to her, the motive of starting the farm was to accommodate drop-out student to find gainful employment and to motivate women group to be self-reliant through engaging in agricultural activities.
She was insistent on producing organic vegetable items. She said cultivation on tomatoes, cabbages, lady fingers, papayas, areca nuts and bananas were started on trial basis. Emboldened by the positive responds from the public, Lopilo said she and her partners had decided to undertaker bigger responsibility.
The most satisfying outcome of starting the farm according to Lopilo was finding job for school drop-outs and motivating women groups to be self reliant.
