The Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee in Mokokchung has inducted new members to revitalise agricultural marketing operations.
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MOKOKCHUNG — The Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC), Mokokchung, has inducted new members to revitalise its operations and strengthen marketing opportunities for farmers in the agriculture and allied sectors.
The revival of APMC Mokokchung was formally announced during a meeting held at the APMC Complex on Tuesday. The meeting was chaired by APMC Chairman I Panger Longkumer, according to an update.
It may be mentioned that to regulate and promote efficient agriculture marketing systems across the state, the Nagaland government enacted the Nagaland Agricultural Produce Marketing (Development and Regulation) Act, 2005. The Act covers the establishment, improvement, development, and regulation of markets for agricultural produce, including processing, export, and related activities.
According to Longkumer, Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung Ajit Kumar Verma played a pivotal role in the revival process by constituting a three-member committee to reactivate agricultural produce marketing initiatives in the district.
Longkumer expressed confidence that inducting educated young members, many of whom are unemployed youths, would inject fresh energy into APMC Mokokchung. He stated that this move will help unlock the full potential of agriculture and allied products in Mokokchung.
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Recalling the committee’s history, the chairman noted that APMC Mokokchung witnessed its peak performance in production and marketing until 2012. However, from 2013 onwards, there was a sharp decline in farmers’ engagement in agricultural activities, which severely impacted overall production.
“As a facilitator for farmers, APMC Mokokchung faced acute shortages of resources and struggled to export products due to reduced farmer participation,” Longkumer said.
He acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic, stating that with renewed support from the district administration and Agri & Allied departments, the committee is now geared up with renewed zeal to empower farmers and enhance their economic sustainability.
Vice Chairman L Yanger Lemtur, who also addressed the meeting, outlined key plans under the revamp initiative. He said the induction of new members would drive APMC activities with fresh policies aimed at transforming agri and allied production while ensuring sustainable economic benefits for farmers in Mokokchung.
As an immediate step, Yanger announced plans to export five tonnes of the locally grown Longkhum tomato. He confirmed that firm correspondences have already been established for the export of this produce.
Under the revival programme, APMC will also introduce locally produced chillies, bananas, pineapples, and other seasonal varieties on a year-round basis, he added.
The committee is currently conducting surveys to formulate farmer-friendly policies, including buy-back arrangements, contract farming, and large-scale production plans, while also working to open new marketing channels.
APMC Mokokchung has appealed to all farmers in the district to approach the committee to sell their agricultural produce. “Our doors are always open to facilitate farmers and link them with various marketing agencies,” Yanger asserted.
It was mentioned that the APMC Mokokchung complex is equipped with modern facilities, including an administrative office, stockyards, auction platforms, cold storage, marketing sheds, compost pits, machinery stores, and weighbridges.