Kohima: Nagaland University researchers are calling for local agricultural strategies to fix how pineapples are grown in the state. Growers currently face persistent hurdles in production, marketing, and post-harvest management. The study, published in the Indian Journal of Extension Education, demands a shift away from uniform policies.
Pineapples grow in every district of Nagaland. They are famous for low fiber and high sweetness, with total soluble solids hitting up to 18 percent. Despite this quality, the industry lacks the institutional support needed for long-term survival.
A team from the Department of Agricultural Extension Education led the project. Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, the Vice Chancellor, noted: "This study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing the adoption of sustainable pineapple farming practices in Nagaland."
Researchers assessed four areas: agronomic practices, resource management, pest control, and post-harvest handling. They found that three main drivers dictate how farmers adopt new habits. Land use, personal motivation, and access to extension services change everything. Dr. Shagolsem Herojit Singh argued that policy designers must look at a farmer's specific economic reality, not just the technology on the table.
Prof. Kaushal Kumar Jha explained why a one-size-fits-all plan fails. He stated: "This underscores the need for tailored agricultural extension strategies and district-specific interventions, rather than a uniform approach, to promote sustainable and resilient pineapple farming in Nagaland."
Better management of soil, water, and inputs could save the crop. Sentibenla Pongener pointed to climate change and soil degradation as major threats. She urged for better capacity building to keep local production resilient. The team suggests that intercropping and organic nutrient management are key to keeping the soil healthy for years to come.
Updated at 22nd September 2026 at 9:48am
Beyond standard policy shifts, researchers are pushing for specific field-level tactics to turn things around. Their recommendations include hands-on training sessions, field demonstrations, and peer-to-peer extension work where farmers share what actually works on the ground. They also stressed the need for regular follow-ups to ensure these methods stick.
The team is also framing this work as a foundation for future studies, specifically looking to map out how these adoption patterns play out district by district. They aim to use these findings to build practical frameworks that aren't just theoretical, but fit the reality of how pineapples are grown across the state.
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