Kohima: Nagaland Minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, is pushing for a transition from subsistence farming to a modern, profitable agricultural sector. She addressed crowds at the 4th Jhum Fair held August 22 at the Amphitheatre in Chiechama. The event was organized by the Chiechamiapfü Mechü Krotho.
Kruse told the crowd that farming must evolve to attract younger generations. Government jobs are full. She sees a future in sustainable practices and organic output. The state holds potential due to its biodiversity and minimal reliance on chemicals.
The Minister urged producers to tap into federal support programs. She listed the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, National Food Security Mission, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture, and MOVCD-NER. Farmers need better storage, processing, and credit access. Kruse wants to see groups work together. She expressed hope that the fair would become a place "where tradition meets innovation, agriculture meets enterprise and community meets opportunity."
The Jhum Fair features local organic produce and homemade goods. It started in 2023. The underlying initiative began four years ago at Ciethu. It originally focused on livelihood activities for young mothers and has since grown into a model for economic self-reliance.
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