Nagaland has been honoured with the prestigious Agriculture Leadership Awards' ‘Best State in Horticulture Award 2024’ for its exemplary work in horticulture.
The award was presented to the state for its innovative programs and policies that have significantly benefited farmers and rural communities.
Minister for Women Resource Development & Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, accepted the award on behalf of the state at the Agriculture Leadership Conclave held in New Delhi on July 10.
The Agriculture Leadership Awards, established in 2008, celebrate excellence and leadership in Indian agriculture, recognising individuals and organisations that contribute significantly to agricultural development and rural prosperity.
These awards are given annually to acknowledge efforts in agriculture, livestock, social and rural development, and their positive impact on the lives of millions of farmers.
Achievements of Nagaland in horticulture
Nagaland's innovative programs and policies in horticulture have led to significant advancements in the sector, benefiting a large number of farmers and rural communities.
The state has introduced several initiatives that have enhanced livelihoods, improved economic conditions, created employment opportunities, and ensured nutritional security and ecological sustainability.
Key initiatives and successes:
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G.I. registration of crops: Nagaland has achieved Geographical Indication (G.I.) registration for three horticultural crops: Naga Mircha, Naga Tree Tomato, and Naga Sweet Cucumber. This registration protects the unique identity of these crops and enhances their market value.
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Formation of farmer producer companies (FPCs): The Department of Horticulture has mobilized the formation of 13 FPCs, bringing 6800 hectares under Organic Certification. These FPCs have received national recognition for their success in organic production of Pineapple, Kiwi, and Large Cardamom.
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Vegetable villages: To increase food production and achieve self-sufficiency, Nagaland has initiated 100 vegetable villages, involving 10,000 households across the state.
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Market linkages and Air Cargo services: The Department of Horticulture has launched air cargo services to promote market linkages for horticulture products like Naga Organic Pineapple and Organic Kiwi, facilitating their distribution to other parts of the country.
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Cultivation of exotic crops: Nagaland is exploring the cultivation of exotic crops such as kiwi, dragon fruit, avocado, and persimmon.
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Horticulture model villages: The state has introduced the concept of Horticulture Model Villages, adopting the 'One Crop One Village' approach in 16 villages to boost horticultural activities holistically.
Past recognition
Nagaland's achievements in horticulture were also recognised in 2018 when it won the same award at the 11th Global Agriculture Summit.
The summit, organised by the Agriculture Today Group, was themed "Connecting Farmers with Markets and Technologies."
After receiving the award, Minister Kruse expressed her gratitude saying, “I am thrilled to receive the ‘Best State in Horticulture 2024’ award on behalf of the State government from the Agriculture Leadership Awards at the Agriculture Leadership Conclave. Nagaland has been honored with this award for its exceptional efforts in introducing innovative programs and policies that have significantly advanced horticulture development, benefiting farmers and rural communities across the state.”
The Jury of the 15th Agriculture Leadership Awards, chaired by Justice P. Sathasivam, former Chief Justice of India and Governor of Kerala, selected the awardees. The list includes 7 individuals, 5 states, and 8 corporate and institutions for their outstanding contributions in various fields.
Recognised states:
- Maharashtra: For achievements in agriculture.
- Nagaland: For horticulture excellence.
- Himachal Pradesh: For advancements in horticulture.
- Haryana: For work in food processing.
- Jammu & Kashmir: For innovations in animal husbandry.
Corporate and institutions:
- SBI: For development.
- Integral University: For academics.
- IISR: For sugarcane research.
- Coromandel, Mahadhan (DFPCL), Parijat, NTC Group, and Shaktiman: For contributions in various agricultural sectors.
Individual honorees:
- Dr. KK Unni: Doyen of India’s crop protection sector.
- Dr. Tarun Shridhar: Former Secretary, GOI.
- Dr. Poonam Malakondaiah: Former ACS, GoAP.
- Dr. Rahul Mirchandani: CMD, Aries Agro.
- Dr. Ramesh Mittal: Renowned agribusiness expert.
- Sh. CS Bhadsavle: Innovative farmer.
- Mr. Muneer Khan: From Columbia University, USA.
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