Merge tradition and tech in agriculture: Yanthan

Advisor of Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan called for supporting traditional farming practices in Nagaland with modern tools to boost productivity and reduce manual labour.
Speaking at the Mithun Mahotsav and Agri-Business Summit for Viksit Bharat 2047 held at Porba village, Phek district on June 26, Yanthan highlighted the economic potential of Mithun and encouraged farmers to explore value addition and commercialisation of its meat products. He also urged government agencies and agri-institutions to provide training for youth to become agri-entrepreneurs.
The event was organised by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Phek and ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM), Porba. Earlier, Yanthan inaugurated the exhibition stalls alongside MLA Dr. Neisatuo Mero.
Dr. Mero stressed the need for improved production and strong market linkages for sustainable agriculture and called for collective efforts under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Director of NRCM, Dr. Girish Patil spoke on agribusiness and meat processing to increase farmer income.
Director of Agriculture, Sanuzo Nienu, stressed food self-sufficiency, while Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services director, Dr. B.M. Sunep Imchen, advocated Mithun vaccination and rearing of “Tho tho” cattle for biodiversity and livelihood.
ICAR General Body member, Dr. Kishore K. Baruah, suggested adopting semi-intensive Mithun rearing, artificial insemination, and supporting youth in agri-startups. Former UBKV VC, Dr. C. Chattopadhyay, encouraged natural farming and better market linkages.
Agriculture Production Commissioner, Wezope Kenye, urged farmers to adopt modern technologies and participate in government schemes. An online session by expert Anjan Dalmia shared post-harvest handling strategies and kiwi grading standards set by NSAMB.
Senior Scientist and KVK Phek head, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, presented the centre’s achievements. A technical session was held in the afternoon.
The programme was coordinated by CTO (Agronomy) Dr. Hannah K. Asangla, and the vote of thanks was delivered by CTO (Soil Science) Dr. Esther T. Longkumer. Over 400 farmers from Phek and Meluri districts participated, and agricultural inputs were distributed.