The scenic Jakhama Local Ground recently played host to the second edition of the Nagaland Potato Festival on 9 May 2025. Held under the resonant theme “Celebrating the Organic Products of Nagaland,” the festival served as a vibrant platform to promote organic potato cultivation across the state. More than just an agricultural showcase, the event was designed to provide a platform for local entrepreneurs and create economic opportunities for village communities.
The festival attracted significant participation, featuring over a hundred stalls set up by local entrepreneurs. These participants hailed primarily from the Southern Angami region, with representation also from the Kiphire and Wokha districts. The Agriculture Department actively participated, showcasing innovations and offering support for sustainable farming practices. The event was hosted by the Community Seed Bank Jakhama in collaboration with various agencies.
Nagaland’s Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along, graced the festival as the special guest. In his address, he lauded the tireless efforts of farmers and stakeholders instrumental in bringing recognition to Nagaland’s organic produce. Minister Along underscored the paramount importance of rural development, articulating a powerful connection between village prosperity and the overall well-being of the state. He stated emphatically, “If our villagers are prosperous, Nagaland will be prosperous. If our villagers are healthy, Nagaland will be healthy. If our villagers have a livelihood, then the people of the state will have a livelihood.”. He also encouraged the promotion of organic farming through the government’s ‘One Village, One Organic Product’ initiative. Minister Along highlighted Nagaland’s unique position in hosting festivals dedicated to various vegetables and fruits, including cucumber, garlic, apple, and persimmon.
Insights from agricultural officials further illuminated the significance of potato cultivation in the state. Khonthungo Kikon, Joint Secretary of the Agriculture Department, expressed optimism that the festival would motivate farmers towards large-scale organic potato cultivation, citing the crop’s high market demand. He added that this would not only boost farmer incomes but also contribute to the state’s economy. Agriculture Director Sanuzo Nienu provided key statistics, noting that potato is a globally vital crop for nutrition, food security, and income generation. He reported that Nagaland currently has 5,562 hectares under potato cultivation, with an estimated production of 62 metric tonnes. The average net income from potato cultivation in the state is reported to be Rs 30,045 per hectare.
The festival was attended by various other dignitaries, including Kohima Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, who inaugurated the Thulova contest, and MLA Kevipodi Sophie. Colonel Anshubhan Singh, Commanding Officer of 5/9 Gorkha Rifles, praised the festival as a key platform for unlocking Nagaland’s potential in potato farming. Vikukhoto Rolnu, the event manager, described the festival as a turning point for agricultural enterprises aimed at increasing farmers’ incomes.
Beyond addresses and exhibitions, the festival offered a diverse range of activities. Attendees could explore sales and exhibitions of potatoes and other local organic products, view displays of farm machinery and bio-fertilisers, and participate in interactive sessions on organic farming. The cultural and recreational aspects were also prominent, featuring traditional games, a pork-fat eating contest, and a music concert.
The Nagaland Potato Festival underscored the growing organic farming movement in Nagaland and the vital role of grassroots entrepreneurship in fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency. It provided valuable networking opportunities, facilitated knowledge sharing, and offered exposure to modern agricultural techniques for farmers, vendors, and business owners.
The event, chaired by Neivozonuo Zao, began with a welcome address by Zhopo Richa, Chairman of the Jakhama Village Council. Overall, the festival successfully showcased Nagaland’s commitment to organic produce and the potential of its agricultural sector.
