Mhasheneinu Zao Richa, Dr Teputo Richa and Vikukhoto Rolnu at the press conference at Hotel Ura, Kohima on April 21. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | April 21
Buoyed by the thumping success of the first edition, the 2nd Nagaland Potato Festival 2025 has been scheduled for May 9 at Jakhama Local Ground. Jakhama lies 16 km via National Highway- 2 from State’s Capital Kohima. It will be held under the aegis of Community Seed Bank Jakhama in collaboration with different agencies.
Addressing a press conference here at Hotel Ura on April 21, the event director Dr Teputo Richa informed that the festival aim to enhance farmers income by promoting the establishment of agriculture-based enterprises, to facilitate the development of value- added products through capacity building and technical support, to establish sustainable market linkages and improve farmers access to both domestic and international markets. The festival also aim to provide financial assistance and access to credit for farmers interested in starting or expanding their enterprise and to promote sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
Dr Richa informed that the organizer received a positive response in 2024 (1st Edition) with over 3000 footfall from 12 districts. The first edition registered 72 stalls across the state and over 15000 kgs of potatoes were sold and generated income of Rs 13, 28, 975.
Celebrating organic products of Nagaland
Event co-ordinator Mhasheneinu Zao Richa said that the event will be held under the theme “Celebrating the organic products of Nagaland.” She maintained that “Nagaland agriculture landscape is rich and diverse, with potato playing a significant role both in the economy and local cuisine.”
With increasing awareness about health and sustainable agriculture, organic potato farming is gaining importance and popularity, Richa said.
She stated that the Nagaland Potato Festival 2025 seeks to promote organic potato cultivation and encourage sustainable farming methods. The festival would provide a platform for farmers to showcase and sell their products, share knowledge and access new markets. It would also feature workshops on organic farming techniques, use of bio-fertilizers. “The festival uniquely combines agriculture, culture and entrepreneurship, creating a platform but also fostering community development,” she said.
Traditional games competition
Event manager Vikukhoto Rolnu said “We are expecting 5000 footfall this year with 100 plus stalls.” He informed that the festival will feature sales and exhibition of local potatoes and other local organic products from across the state. There will also be exhibition and sales of latest farming machineries and bio fertilizers, agri based schemes and benefits, biggest potato and best stall award.
There will be sensitization, advocacy and workshop on organic farming in collaboration with various NGOs and government departments.
The festival will also feature traditional games competition. There will be pork-fat eating contest in collaboration with the department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services.
Live music concert will take place in the evening session in collaboration with Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA). The organiser is inviting everyone to be part of the festival. For stall registration, contact 7641838258/ 8257007903.
