Nuzolu Chuzho, a lead farmer from the Self Help Group (SHG) in Thipuzu village, located in Phek district, has received the esteemed Innovation Excellence Award at the 5th edition of the “Outlook Agritech Summit & Awards 2024.”
Nuzolu Chuzho, a lead farmer from Nagaland’s Phek district, has garnered national acclaim by receiving the Innovation Excellence Award at the Outlook Agritech Summit & Awards 2024 held in New Delhi. This prestigious recognition highlights her significant contributions to sustainable agricultural practices in potato cultivation, particularly through her project titled “Food Security through Organic Potato Tuber Production.”
Chuzho, an active member of a self-help group (SHG) in Thipuzu village, has become a beacon of innovation in her community. Her project addresses a critical challenge faced by local potato farmers: the lack of access to quality seed potatoes during the planting season. Historically, farmers in the Phek district were compelled to source tubers from neighboring states, which led to delays in planting and incurred high transportation costs, ultimately affecting their productivity and profitability.
In response to this pressing issue, the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (ICAR-KVK) in Phek, under the ICAR-ATARI Zone VII in Umiam, initiated a collaborative project with Chuzho. Funded by the Farm Sector Promotion Fund (FSPF) under NABARD, this initiative included the construction of a low-cost bamboo storage structure specifically designed for potato seeds. This innovative storage solution provides optimal conditions for preserving seed potatoes after harvest, ensuring their viability for subsequent planting seasons.
The bamboo storage structure can accommodate up to six tonnes of tubers, effectively addressing the farmers’ need for reliable seed potato storage. By reducing dependence on external sources and minimizing costs, this initiative has not only enhanced food security but also empowered local farmers to improve their agricultural practices sustainably.
Chuzho’s recognition at the Outlook Agritech Summit exeplifies the importance of innovation in agriculture and the vital role that farmers play in fostering sustainable practices. Her success story serves as an inspiration for other farmers, agronomists, entrepreneurs, and industry specialists to explore innovative solutions that can enhance productivity and foster resilience within the potato value chain.
As the agriculture sector continues to evolve, Nuzolu Chuzho’s achievements remind stakeholders of the significance of supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The recognition she has received is a testament to the potential that lies in grassroots initiatives, paving the way for a more sustainable and productive future in potato cultivation.
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