DIMAPUR: Sapotimi village under Zunheboto district celebrated its first Chilli Festival on Friday with the theme “Let’s Celebrate Our Spice, Our Pride,” sponsored by the Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland. The programme was graced by Dr. Along Tzudir, District Horticulture Officer, Zunheboto, as special guest, accompanied by members of Farmers’ Wing NPF Zunheboto Division and the Zunheboto District Tourism Association.
The festival highlighted the village’s remarkable progress in chilli cultivation and sustainable farming practices.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Tzudir commended the people of Sapotimi for their diligence and hard work, noting that the village has consistently inspired the department through its success.
He said the department was fortunate to have adopted Sapotimi as a horticulture village and assured continued support to strengthen agricultural development. Encouraging youth to view agriculture as a promising enterprise, he also highlighted the growing potential of horti tourism.
L. Bendang, chairman of Longsa Village Council, lauded Sapotimi’s dedication to farming and said neighbouring villages had much to learn from its example. He also appreciated the Department of Horticulture for its unwavering support.
Sharing the village’s farming journey, Tokugha Sumi, Lead Farmer of Sapotimi, recalled that farming had been the primary occupation since the time of their forefathers. He noted that the declaration of Sapotimi as a “Chilli Village” in 2021 marked a turning point, with technical guidance and relay cropping systems significantly improving productivity. Today, the farmers have achieved self sufficiency and are producing surplus crops for the market.
The programme began with an invocation by Rev. Vitoshe, followed by a welcome address by Khekuto Akukau. Libotoli, Village Level Officer, delivered the vote of thanks, and Aloto Y/L pronounced the benediction. The event also featured inspection of stalls showcasing local produce and concluded with a chilli feast.
