Nagaland Governor Reviews Agricultural Schemes, Emphasizes Sustainable Farming Practices

Kohima, India Jul 28, 2026 ALN: Kohima: Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav chaired a review meeting of the Department of Agriculture at Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on Tuesday, where officials presented an overview of the department’s ongoing schemes, achievements, challenges, and future plans for the agriculture sector.

During the meeting, the department highlighted its efforts towards improving agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices, strengthening irrigation infrastructure, enhancing mechanization, and increasing farmers’ income through various centrally sponsored schemes and state initiatives. These initiatives are particularly crucial in a state like Nagaland, where agriculture plays a vital role in the economy and the livelihood of its people.

Nagaland’s agricultural landscape is characterized by a diverse range of crops, including rice, maize, millet, and various fruits and vegetables. The state's unique geographical features, such as its hilly terrain and varied climatic conditions, necessitate tailored agricultural practices that can adapt to local environmental conditions. The state's agriculture is predominantly subsistence-based, with many farmers relying on traditional farming methods that have been passed down through generations. This makes the promotion of modern agricultural techniques and sustainable practices even more important.

Officials informed that nearly 70% of Nagaland’s population is engaged in agriculture, with women accounting for around 65% of the agricultural workforce. This statistic underscores the significant role that women play in the agricultural sector, not only as laborers but also as decision-makers in farming practices. Women often manage household food production and contribute significantly to the local economy, yet they frequently face challenges such as limited access to resources, training, and credit. Recognizing and empowering women in agriculture is essential for enhancing productivity and ensuring food security in the region.

The department also presented details on the state’s agricultural profile, production targets, cropping intensity, and progress under various programmes, which are designed to align with the unique geographical and climatic conditions of the region. The review meeting provided a platform for assessing the impact of these programmes on the ground, allowing for adjustments and improvements based on feedback from farmers and stakeholders.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of key schemes, including Krishonnati Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY), National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM), National Mission on Edible Oils, Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER), National Mission on Natural Farming, PM-Kisan, Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), Per Drop More Crop (PDMC), Rainfed Area Development, and Agroforestry initiatives. Each of these schemes has specific objectives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring food security for the population.

Among the schemes discussed, the Krishonnati Yojana focuses on holistic development of agriculture and allied sectors, encouraging farmers to adopt modern techniques and technologies. PM-RKVY aims to provide financial assistance to states for the development of agriculture and allied sectors, ensuring that the benefits reach the grassroots level. Meanwhile, the National Food Security and Nutrition Mission emphasizes improving the availability of food grains, thereby addressing issues of hunger and malnutrition in the state.

The department also briefed the Governor on progress in expanding oil palm cultivation, promoting organic and natural farming, developing water harvesting infrastructure, strengthening farmer training and capacity building, and improving market linkages for agricultural produce. The promotion of oil palm cultivation is particularly relevant given the increasing global demand for palm oil, which can provide a lucrative alternative for farmers in Nagaland. However, this shift must be approached cautiously to avoid potential environmental impacts associated with large-scale palm oil production.

Challenges such as fragmented landholdings, inadequate infrastructure, difficult terrain, and road connectivity issues were also discussed during the meeting, along with measures to address these concerns. Fragmented landholdings, in particular, pose a significant challenge to agricultural productivity, as they limit the scale of farming operations and make it difficult for farmers to invest in modern agricultural practices. The difficult terrain of Nagaland, which is characterized by hilly landscapes and varying climatic conditions, further complicates agricultural activities. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure, including poor road connectivity, limits farmers' access to markets and resources, impacting their income and overall productivity.

Governor Yadav appreciated the efforts of the department in implementing developmental programmes across the state and stressed the need to strengthen sustainable agriculture, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and ensure effective implementation of government schemes. He emphasized that the future of agriculture in Nagaland hinges on the ability of farmers to adapt to changing climatic conditions and market demands, making it essential to invest in sustainable practices that can withstand these challenges. Climate change poses a significant threat to agriculture, with unpredictable weather patterns and increased incidences of pests and diseases affecting crop yields.

Furthermore, the Governor called for a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and the private sector, to enhance the agricultural landscape of Nagaland. By fostering partnerships, the government can leverage additional resources and expertise to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the agricultural sector. Collaboration with NGOs can also facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building among farmers, helping them to adopt innovative practices and improve their productivity.

Senior officers from the Governor’s Secretariat and officials from the Department of Agriculture attended the review meeting. Their presence highlights the importance of inter-departmental coordination in achieving the agricultural goals set forth by the state government. The outcome of this meeting is expected to guide future policies and initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector in Nagaland, which remains a cornerstone of the state's economy. Effective coordination among various government departments is crucial for implementing comprehensive agricultural strategies that address the diverse needs of farmers.

As the state moves forward, it is crucial to monitor the impacts of these schemes and initiatives on the ground. Regular assessments and feedback from farmers will be essential to understand the effectiveness of the implemented strategies and to make necessary adjustments. The commitment to sustainable farming practices not only aims to improve productivity but also to ensure the long-term viability of agriculture in Nagaland, safeguarding the interests of future generations. Continuous engagement with farmers will help identify emerging challenges and opportunities, ensuring that agricultural policies remain relevant and effective.

In conclusion, the review meeting chaired by Governor Nand Kishore Yadav serves as a significant step towards reinforcing the agricultural framework in Nagaland. With a focus on sustainable practices, enhanced productivity, and improved livelihoods for farmers, the state is poised to tackle the challenges ahead while ensuring food security and economic stability for its population. The collaborative efforts of the government, farmers, and other stakeholders will be pivotal in realizing these goals and fostering a resilient agricultural sector in Nagaland. As the state navigates the complexities of modern agriculture, the commitment to sustainability and community engagement will be essential in shaping a prosperous future for its agricultural landscape.