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JAKHAMA — The department of Agriculture and supported by Farm Craft Enterprise, in collaboration with The Green Caravan Nagaland and Community Seed Bank, Jakhama, along with several organisations, organised the ‘Nagaland potato festival’ on Friday at Jakhama public ground.
Dr. N Sailo, senior scientist and head in-charge of ICAR-CPRI (RS), Shillong, while introducing scientific method of potato cultivation, emphasised the significance of scientific cultivation practices for enhancing potato yield and quality. He highlighted the importance of using quality seeds and adopting technologies such as aeroponics for seed multiplication, which are already prevalent in other regions but under-utilised in the northeast.
Dr. Sailo also discussed on the balanced use of chemical fertilisers for optimum yielding. He also stressed on proper storage practices for preventing infections and insect infestations.
Interacting with Eastern Mirror, the senior scientist explained on how phytophthora infestation could cause famine especially while referring to the ‘Irish potato famine of in 1985.’ He added in India the disease was first recorded in the Nilgiri Hills from 1870 to 1880.
Dr. Sailo also explained about potato micro-tuberisation from in-vitro microplants, mini tuber productions through aeroponic system, potato storage technology, potato virus diseases and apical rooted cuttings.
Visakunu Tetso, the host of the event, welcomed the participants and emphasised the vital role of farmers as the backbone of the country.
Quoting the saying, "If you ate today, thank a farmer," Tetso highlighted the significance of agriculture, particularly rice and potato cultivation, which serve as staple foods in Nagaland. She mentioned that people love the potatoes grown in the southern Angami area because they consider them special and delicious, which inspired them to start the festival.
Tetso expressed the festival was aimed at empowering farmers with efficient potato cultivation techniques to enhance yields, provide a platform for marketing local produce and promote the adoption of modern machinery in agriculture.
Kevithuto Sophie, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, inaugurated and officially opened the event.
At the festival, Kelechünu stall won the award for the ‘best potato stall,’ while Dzükozou Radzüla Terrace was awarded for presenting the ‘best stall’ and Oasis Women Agri-allied Cooperative Society, Zhodi colony, was recognised for growing the biggest potato weighing 450 gram.
Various indigenous games were held during the event.
In the catapult competition, Loneho Tase emerged as the winner, while Ruokuo Kense was declared as the runner-up.
Mhashevikho Rhetso claimed the championship title in the "phieda" competition, followed by Zayieho Kin in second place. Zanuo Krotho secured the first position in the "Thuloyo" competition, while Taho secured the second position.