DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 1 (MExN): Nagaland Horticulture Mission (NHM) has received excellent reviews from the joint inspection team constituted by the Government of India under the Ministry of Agriculture for implementation of various horticulture programmes in the state. Horticulture Technology Mission Chief Consultant, RKS Rathore heading the team told reporters here today that, the horticulture mission scheme has fared very well in Nagaland. He observed that the State government is serious about this sector. The central inspection team is currently in Nagaland to evaluate the horticulture programmes in detail. The team visited Mokokchung, Wokha, Kohima and Dimapur districts.
Joint inspection team evaluates NHM
Commenting on the growth of horticulture in Nagaland, Rathore said it has been tremendous in terms of productivity. Productivity of fruits like orange, banana, pineapple; spices and vegetables has increased, and vast area of land is now under horticulture cultivation. He was also happy to see that farmers are actively participating in the various programmes. He was particularly pleased to note that not only traditional farmers but also working professionals are engaged in horticulture. He observed that the per capita income of farmers in the state have improved considerably through horticulture.
Despite the tremendous growth, Rathore, however, commented that adulated landmass and lack of physical infrastructure remains the major stumbling blocks. He said mobility and transport are difficulties most farmers are facing. He also suggested micro-irrigation to tackle water problems. On the marketing aspect, Rathore said that the Centre is preparing modules on how best to provide marketing linkages to farmers in all states where horticulture mission is being implemented. He said both state governments and the Centre are working on it.
Sensing the improving conditions of horticulture in Nagaland, the Centre has decided to continue providing support. Rathore said that the North east region alone contributes about 30% of the country’s production. He said the Government of India has noted that the North East region, including three Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarankhand where the mission has been set up, has potentials to feed the entire country. The Horticulture Mission was set up in 2001-02.
