Chiechama hosts 3rd Jhum Fair

The 3rd Jhum Fair 2025, organised by Chiechamiapfü Mechü Krotho, was held at the Chiechama Amphitheatre on Friday, showcasing the village’s agricultural richness, traditional practices and communal spirit.
Special Officer to the chief minister, Neibalie Rio, graced the occasion as special guest and highlighted agriculture as the economic backbone of Nagaland, with over 70% of the population engaged in farming.
He noted that both terrace and jhum cultivation are not only essential for food production but are deeply rooted in the cultural identity of the state.
He informed that under the PM-Kisan scheme, Chiephobozou SDAO has 6,030 registered farmers, including 912 from Chiechama village, receiving Rs. 6,000 annually in three instalments.
This translates to Rs. 3.61 crore in assistance for the block, with Chiechama farmers alone benefiting by Rs. 54.72 lakh per year.
He also highlighted the success of the MOVCD-NER programme, which in 2024 focused on Job’s Tear cultivation at the Ciethu jhum field.
A total of 140 farmers from Chiechama registered and received Rs. 7,000 each via DBT, amounting to Rs. 9.8 lakh.
The village harvested around 10 metric tonnes last year, marketed to New Delhi and other states.
This year, the government is promoting natural farming through the National Mission on Natural Farming.
In Chiechama, 125 farmers forming one cluster have registered, each set to receive Rs. 4,000 annually in two instalments, bringing Rs. 5 lakh into the village.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM), under which 39 Self-Help Groups from Chiechama, comprising 294 members, have received Rs. 31.08 lakh in assistance.
He urged the community to safeguard indigenous seeds and crop varieties, citing the Chizami Seed Bank as a model initiative conserving over 150 traditional seed varieties.
He encouraged Chiechama to adopt similar preservation efforts.
He further advised the Krotho to collaborate with the Village Education Committee to include traditional agricultural practices in school extracurricular activities, helping children gain basic farming knowledge and preserve age-old practices.
The fair featured stalls displaying freshly harvested vegetables, cereals, millets, turmeric powder, fresh pork, and agricultural tools.
Traditional delicacies such as Chiecha Licha, pork with snails, local chicken porridge, and woodworms drew food enthusiasts.
Handcrafted baskets, traditional garments and necklaces showcased local artistry.
The event began with an invocation by Rev. Soneiu Metha, pastor of Baptist Church Chiechama, followed by a marketing shed report presented by Thejangunuo Theünuo. Seyiekhrielie Rio, BDO Chiephobozou, also addressed the gathering.
The programme was compered by Pelesano Chadi and Thepfukhrietuo Rüpreo.
Earlier, the chief guest inaugurated the Chiechamiapfü Mechü Krotho marketing shed.
Among the nine Khels in the village, the best three were awarded based on their presentation and variety of items displayed.