Second Nagaland Potato Festival set for May 9 in Jakhama

(L-R) Mhashenenu Zao Richa, Dr. Teputo Richa, and Vikekhoto Rolnu addressing the press conference on Monday at Hotel Ura, Kohima. (EM Images)

• KOHIMA — The second edition of the Nagaland Potato Festival will take place on May 9 at Jakhama Local Ground in Kohima district.
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• Organised by like-minded entrepreneurs, this was announced at Hotel Ura in Kohima by Dr. Teputo Richa, event director, along with Mhashenenu Zao Richa, event coordinator, and Vikekhoto Rolnu, event manager, during a press conference on Monday.
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• Dr. Richa said the main objective of the Potato Festival is to enhance farmers' income by promoting the establishment of agricultural-based enterprises and facilitating the development of value-added products through capacity building and technical support.

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• The festival also aims to establish sustainable market linkages, improve farmers' access to both domestic and international markets, and provide financial assistance and access to credit for farmers interested in starting or expanding their enterprises to promote sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
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• He added that in 2024 the first-ever Nagaland Potato Festival received a very positive response, with a footfall of over 3,000. More than 12 districts participated, showcasing over 72 stalls, and over 15,000 kg of potatoes were sold. He also maintained that the farmers and entrepreneurs who set up their stalls had a total income of INR 13,20,975.
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• Mhashenenu stated that the Nagaland Organic Potato Festival 2025 is about cultivating heritage and celebrating the organic products of the state. She observed that Nagaland's agricultural landscape is rich and diverse, with potatoes playing a significant role in both the economy and local cuisine.
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• She stated that with the increasing awareness of health and sustainable agriculture, organic potato farming is gaining importance and popularity.
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• The Organic Potato Festival seeks to promote organic potato cultivation, encourage sustainable farming methods, and provide a platform for farmers to showcase and sell their produce, share knowledge, and access new markets, she added.
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• Asserting that the festival aims to facilitate networking among young entrepreneurs, farmers, and consumers, she said there would be workshops on organic farming methods and the use of biofertilizers.
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• She also asserted that the festival aims to foster community engagement by involving local communities—especially youths and students—in agricultural activities, while also attracting visitors to generate income for the community.
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• Furthermore, she stated that the Potato Festival uniquely combines agriculture and entrepreneurship, creating a platform that also addresses economic aspects and fosters community development.
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• Event manager Rolnu highlighted that this year they are expecting a footfall of at least 4,000 to 5,000 and over 100 stalls. He informed that as part of the festival, there will be prizes and awards for the biggest potato and the best stall.
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• In collaboration with various NGOs and government departments, there will be sensitisation and advocacy workshops and activities on farming and the benefits of organic products, as well as health-related issues among the youth.
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• Highlights of the festival include traditional game competitions and pork fat-eating competitions, in collaboration with Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. There will also be displays and sales of the latest agricultural technologies and machinery, which will be available at the most affordable rates.
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• In the evening, there will be live music concerts in collaboration with Task Force for Music and the Arts, where prominent and young artists from across the state will enthral the audience.