DIMAPUR, JULY 15 (MExN): A two-day state level refresher course-cum-workshop on ‘Technology Mission’ organised by the department of horticulture, Nagaland took off on Thursday, July 15 in Dimapur. The workshop is for departmental officers and field staffers.
Parliamentary secretary for horticulture, R. Khing attended the inaugural programme held at Green Park, 5th Mile as the chief guest. The inaugural was followed by technical programme which will take place at Development Association of Nagaland, 4th Mile. Parliamentary Secretary R. Khing in his speech observed that the varied agro-climatic and soil conditions of the state offers vast scope for development of horticultural crops which can be a viable alternative for reviving the state’s economy. However, these are yet to be tapped due to lack of required inputs including planting material, technology, extension services, market linkages and investment from financial institutions.
“If proper attention is given, the state can become the horticulture bowl of India,” Khing asserted on a positive note. Crops such as passion fruits, pineapples, local cucumber and other vegetables can be grown throughout the year here, he observed. As such he called for intensified efforts to cultivate “identified fruits, off-season fruits and vegetables and other cash crops as a short term objective of the Technology Mission in selected and in Compact Areas by providing suitable panting materials and other input services.”
Meanwhile, he hoped that holding of such workshops will become a regular feature, not only to enhance theoretical knowledge and field experiences but at the same time encourage the growers. “I am sure that the workshop will focus special attention to the major issues faced by the farmers. This kind of workshop will definitely go a long way in creating awareness among farmers about the importance and value of horticultural crops…” In end Khing hoped that the resource person as well as the participants can share their ideas and practical experiences and come out with sound strategies.
Today’s inaugural had in attendance Joseph Humtsoe, director of horticulture, Nagaland; and Dr. N. Benjong Aier, Mission Director (TM-NE), directorate of horticulture besides departmental officers. To carry forward the state ‘Horticulture Technology Mission’, the department has also procured two ‘refrigerator trucks’ at a cost of Rs. 25 lakhs besides other machineries which will be provided to farmers with potential, at subsidised rates.
