KOHIMA: Nagaland has been recognised with the prestigious Best State in Horticulture Award 2024 for its exemplary initiatives in agricultural development, particularly in the field of horticulture.
The award ceremony took place at the Agriculture Leadership Conclave held at Hotel Holiday Inn, Aerocity, New Delhi, where Minister for Women Resource Development & Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, accepted the award on behalf of the state.
Presenting the award were Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport & Highway, and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
Nagaland received the award in recognition of its outstanding efforts in improving the livelihoods of farmers, enhancing economic conditions, promoting farm diversification, and creating employment opportunities.
“With the opportunities available in the horticulture sector, the Department will continue striving to enhance production and uplift the economic status of farmers,” said Minister Kruse.
Nagaland’s achievements include the Geographical Indication (GI) registration of three horticultural crops — Naga Mircha, Naga Tree Tomato, and Naga Sweet Cucumber.
The state’s initiatives have also focused on ensuring nutritional security and ecological sustainability.
The Department of Horticulture in Nagaland has successfully formed 13 Farmers’ Producer Companies (FPCs), covering approximately 6800 hectares under organic certification.
These FPCs have received national acclaim for their contributions to organic production of pineapple, kiwi, and large cardamom.
Furthermore, the state has launched initiatives like 100 vegetable villages, benefiting 10,000 households, and introduced air cargo services to facilitate the transportation of horticultural products such as Naga organic pineapple and organic kiwi to markets across the country.
Nagaland has also ventured into cultivating exotic crops such as dragon fruit, avocado, and persimmon, alongside implementing the “Horticulture Model Village” concept in 16 villages.
This model aims to boost holistic horticulture development through dedicated village-centric approaches.
Established in 2008, the Agriculture Leadership Awards aim to acknowledge individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the development of Indian agriculture and rural prosperity.
