Zelome in Phek declared 'Ground Apple growing village'

Dimapur, Feb. 12 (EMN): Zelome, a village in Phek district has been declared a ‘ground apple-growing village’ on February 11.

It suggests a targeted farming impetus, now that a good number of households are engaged in growing the exotic sweet root, Yacon.

About 150 households were stated to be engaged in the cultivation of the Yacon, also called casually as Ground Apple.’

The department of Information and Public Relations (IPR), the government’s publicity agency, gave updates to the media on Wednesday informing about the notice.

A “declaration programme” jointly organised by the village council of Zelome and the Officers’ Club of Pfutsero, was conducted it was informed.

Phuleshe K Yepthomi, the additional deputy commissioner of Pfutsero, addressed the event. In his exhortation, the government servant said the Naga forefathers were self-sufficient and self-reliant and that the farmers of Zelome village are one of the modern examples who thrive without any government support.

He urged the farmers to cultivate the crop without depending on government subsidies but by relying on new technologies.

Another official, Dr. Lhishelo, was stated to have spoken about the “health benefits” of Ground Apple, saying that “regular consumption of Ground Apple improves the immune system and digestion. It is also good for liver and heart and can be consumed by diabetic and cancer patients,” according to the IPR.

Dr. Imtionen, subdivision agriculture officer for Pfutsero, highlighted tips to the gathering about organic cultivation of the Ground Apple ‘which can be grown easily in loose soil with organic matter and is more drought tolerant than other vegetables.’ He mentioned that the crop had a long shelf life and maintains quality, the IPR stated. After harvest, the leaves can be used as “organic matter,” the IPR reported.

Speaking during the occasion as the event’s guest of honour, Horticulture officer Senti Longchar said the Ground Apple is a “very nutritious food and that every farmer should be encouraged to grow it in their field because it is a fast-growing, remunerative and an easy to maintain the crop.”

He requested the farmers to market it at an affordable price to consumers ‘so that the rich and the poor can enjoy this nutritious food,’ the IPR stated.