Dimapur, September 16 (MExN): With the fragile ecosystem of the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) facing severe challenges from climate change and human interventions, a consultation meet on agroecology-based farming practices will be held in Nagaland. The Himalayan Agroecology Initiative, under the Alliance Bioversity, CIAT, and several international organizations, will organize the Nagaland State Stakeholder's Consultation Meet on September 19 at the Directorate of Agriculture in Kohima.
According to K. Remphamo Lotha, Consultant and State Coordinator of the Himalayan Agroecology Initiative, the IHR is particularly vulnerable to frequent extreme weather events, soil erosion, landslides, and habitat degradation. This, combined with the loss of traditional conservation and livelihood systems, has led to significant ecological and socio-economic challenges for the region.
The upcoming consultation will focus on promoting sustainable agriculture through agroecology-based practices. It will explore how these methods can help mitigate biodiversity loss, manage natural resources, and create more sustainable food systems. "Agroecological practices are key to transforming food systems and improving farmers' livelihoods," Lotha emphasized.
The event will bring together various stakeholders, including research institutions, Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), entrepreneurs, and progressive farmers. Participants will discuss topics such as natural resource management, agro-biodiversity, soil conservation, and agroecological principles in traditional farming practices like Jhum cultivation.
High-level state officials, including Advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan and Agriculture Production Commissioner Wezope Kenye, IAS, will grace the occasion, along with scientists from ICAR, Nagaland University, forest officials, and women’s groups. The consultation aims to foster collaboration between these groups to develop strategies for sustainable farming in the Himalayan region.
The Agroecology Himalayas Task Force, established in 2023, is working toward creating a roadmap for sustainable food systems in the region, with support from international bodies such as the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The consultation in Nagaland is part of a series of regional meetings taking place between September 17 and 26 across four states to address regional challenges and opportunities.
