Dimapur, February 21 (MExN): The INTACH Nagaland Chapter will organise the first-ever ‘North East Festival of Rice: Grains of Heritage’ on February 26 and 27 at the Agri Expo, Dimapur featuring curated exhibitions of heirloom rice varieties, traditional farming tools, and seed preservation practices from across the region.
The festival will bring together communities from across Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Sikkim to celebrate rice at the heart of indigenous culture and sustainable living.
The festival, to be held from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, aims to showcase how rice cultivation shapes the region's agricultural heritage and biodiversity, according to a press release issued by Sentila T Yanger, State Convener of INTACH Nagaland Chapter.
A vibrant craft section will highlight bamboo work, handloom textiles, and artisanal products inspired by agrarian life. Student participation will be a key highlight, featuring immersive farm-to-table experiences and a rice-themed painting competition, cultural performances, and a two-day seminar on rice to address critical issues related to the crop.
The festival marketplace will host farmers and entrepreneurs offering organic produce, rice-based products and handmade goods. A dedicated food arena will serve diverse rice dishes, from steamed and sticky varieties to traditional beverages, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the region. The event is supported by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland; ICAR NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema; ICAR NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya; and NEZCC, Ministry of Culture, Dimapur.
