Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, Sep 23 (NPN): The 11th Ayurveda Day cum launch programme for distribution and cultivation of Piper longum and Piper retrofractum in Nagaland was held at Vihokhu village, Niuland, on Wednesday in collaboration with Dabur India Ltd.
Addressing the gathering as special guest, Lok Sabha MP and NPCC president S. Supongmeren Jamir said the programme marked a new dimension in celebrating Ayurveda Day while providing farmers with an opportunity to cultivate medicinal plants for livelihood.
He recalled that indigenous medicinal plants had traditionally been used by earlier generations in Nagaland and expressed hope that the initiative would encourage greater interest in medicinal plant cultivation among farmers and youth.
Supongmeren informed that the project had been launched in Zunheboto, Mon and Niuland districts, noting that Nagaland’s climate was suitable for cultivation. He said the initiative could also lead to further discovery and value addition of medicinal plants traditionally used in the state. Stressing the importance of an assured market, he highlighted that Dabur India Ltd. would procure the cultivated produce, unlike past experiences with crops such as coffee and ginger where farmers faced market difficulties.
He encouraged farmers to take up cultivation on a larger scale and urged youth participation, saying the initiative could provide additional income while preserving traditional knowledge and practices. Supongmeren also called upon district administration, police, officials and farmers to work together to make the pilot project successful, adding that success in Niuland could encourage similar initiatives elsewhere.
On the theme “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow,” Dr. Tiakaba Jamir, in charge of Institute of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy (IAH), Dimapur, highlighted the relevance of Ayurveda in promoting health and wellness. Jangaiah Mangalaram, Principal Scientist of Dabur India Ltd., gave a presentation on Piper cultivation.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Dr. T. Bendangtula, Deputy Director (AYUSH) and CEO, State Medicinal Plants Board (SMPB), Nagaland. Pastor Charlie Chophy of VGBA offered the invocation, while GB Kuhovi Zhimomi of Vihokhu village delivered the welcome address.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Seyiekhrietuo John, SPO, NAM, followed by a dedicatory prayer for Piper cultivation led by Dr. Vebuzo Keyho, associate pastor, Chakhesang Baptist Church, Diphupar.