Paddy transplantation at Pele Khezhie’s paddy field at on July 9. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 9
Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers Union (NCSU) President, Pele Khezhie today stressed on the need to strengthen farming culture in the state. He maintained that farming has always been the cultural backbone and traditional way of life for the Naga people, and called upon the present generation to go back to field to ensure continued self-reliance and cultural preservation.
Interacting with media persons at his paddy field near Dzüü River in Kohima district, he however lamented that there has been a noticeable decline in farming practices among the general populace in recent years and described it as a sad trend.
He observed that the younger generation are gradually moving away from farming, and warned that this shift could have serious cultural and economic consequences for the Naga people.
“Farming is our identity. Our forefathers survived through farming without depending on external support. This is what made our villages self-sufficient and independent,” he stated.
He cautioned that if Nagas were to abandon agriculture altogether, it would amount to giving up their self-reliance.
Khezhie shared that more than 200 individuals from surrounding villages had come to help him in this year’s paddy transplantation process.
Villagers from Chakhabama, Kezoma, Kohima Village and other areas participated in the collective effort, turning the farming activity into a community celebration.
He said that women’s groups played a vital role in the event, including members from Kezoma Baptist Church and womenfolk from Lidi Kro-u, who voluntarily came to assist in the fieldwork.
Their participation, he said, reflected the enduring communal spirit that surrounds agricultural life in Naga society.
Officials from agriculture and horticulture department also joined the field activities, providing technical guidance and sharing modern farming techniques aimed at improving grain yield and soil health.
Khezhie lauded their involvement and encouraged wider cooperation between traditional farmers and agricultural experts to strengthen the sector.
Highlighting the cultural significance of farming, Khezhie pointed out that paddy transplantation is part of a traditional year-long cycle that culminates in the harvest season towards the end of the year. “It is not merely labour, but a tradition that brings people together,” he remarked.
He stressed the need for preserving this tradition and passing it on to future generations.
“We must ensure that our youth do not lose touch with their roots. Farming is not just about food production—it is about community, identity, and survival,” he asserted.
Khezhie expressed hope that more individuals, especially among the youth, would revive their interest in farming and contribute towards preserving a legacy that has sustained Naga society for generations.
Meanwhile, Pele Khezhie Company (PKC) extended best wishes to Pele Khezhie for his 63rd Birthday, which falls on July 9.
