IT News
Kamjong, May 2:
A farmers’ consultative meet on the theme “Village Level Geo-Economic Development through Sustainable Farming” was held on April 28 at the Community Hall in Khamlang Village, Kamjong district. The event drew a good number of farmers and agricultural enthusiasts and lasted for four hours, beginning at 11:00 AM.
Organized and sponsored by the Tribal Resource Development Centre (TRDC) in collaboration with Development for Rural People and supported by Tribal Taste, the day-long event served as a platform for farmers to exchange ideas, experiences, and innovative practices aimed at strengthening local economies through sustainable agriculture.
Yaruingam Ningshen, entrepreneur and organic farming promoter, was among the key speakers. Quoting from Genesis 1:1, he urged participants to embrace growth and wealth creation in a fair and transparent manner, saying, “God created the heavens and the earth out of nothing. We too must multiply our resources.” He underscored the need for churches to teach economic literacy, and advocated for collective community efforts, citing the success story of Amul Dairy Cooperative in Gujarat as an inspiration for rural empowerment.
Dr. Changmei Shadang, a well-known dietician and nutritionist, highlighted the growing concern of lifestyle and eating disorders among youths. She pointed out the negative impact of excessive gadget use on sleep and dietary patterns, urging attendees to promote herbal teas, organic foods, and especially the cultivation and consumption of nutrient-rich millets in place of refined rice and processed food.
Another speaker, Ningreingam Kashung, an experienced farmer and horticulturist, cautioned against the environmental degradation caused by jhum (slash-and-burn) cultivation. He encouraged innovative agricultural practices and large-scale intercropping to enhance productivity and income.
Athui Panmei, a bee-keeping expert, spoke on the vast untapped potential of apiculture in tribal economies. He emphasized that locally produced, unadulterated honey can become a major source of sustainable income.
The programme concluded with the distribution of high-yielding varieties of Moringa and Roselle seeds to participating farmers, aimed at encouraging further diversification and sustainability in local farming practices.
