Wokha, NECTAR ink MoU for Tech growth

In continuation of the review meeting held by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Dr. Jitendra Singh, on June 17, 2025, the district administration of Wokha signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), Shillong, at the DC Conference Hall, Wokha on Friday.
The MoU seeks to promote collaborative research, innovation, technology adoption, circular economy and sustainable livelihood initiatives in Wokha district, marking a step towards technology-led agricultural and economic transformation.
Welcoming the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Wokha, Vineet Kumar, stressed that with nearly 90 percent of the district’s population dependent on agriculture and allied industries, scientific and technological interventions were vital for growth. He observed that despite favourable agro-climatic conditions and diverse crop cultivation, farming practices remained largely traditional, limiting income potential. He expressed optimism that the collaboration with NECTAR would bridge this gap through structured technical support and capacity building.
Director general of NECTAR, Dr. Arun Kumar Sarma, highlighted ongoing initiatives under the PM-DevINE programme benefiting Nagaland. He informed that nearly 2,000 farmers from the state were already connected under NECTAR’s scientific organic farming initiative, which promotes cluster-based cultivation, certification, infrastructure support and market linkages.
A key highlight of the programme was the virtual inauguration of a Community Managed Seed System (CMSS) Seed Bank at Baghty village. Managed by the farming community, the seed bank will provide climate-resilient seeds to small and marginal farmers at affordable cost, while preserving indigenous landraces and strengthening resilience through improved storage practices.
PGS 1 Scope certificates were also distributed to master trainers under the PM-DevINE project, further strengthening organic certification efforts. Dr. Sarma elaborated on the banana pseudo-stem value addition project, under which Rs.5.3 crore Common Facility Centre (CFC) is being set up at Merapani. The project aims to convert banana waste into fibre and other value-added products, generating employment opportunities and promoting circular economy practices.
During the interactive session, farmers and entrepreneurs engaged with NECTAR officials on scaling up local enterprises. Dr. Sarma assured that NECTAR would extend all possible technical assistance to stakeholders. Later, detailed deliberations were held between the DC Wokha and NECTAR officials on short-term and long-term action plans tailored to the district’s developmental needs.
The meeting was attended by heads of district line departments, MARCOFED representatives, NECTAR officials, farmers and entrepreneurs. It concluded with discussions on sustained collaboration to unlock Wokha’s agricultural potential and position the district as a model for technology-led rural development in Nagaland.