DIPR
Dimapur, July 24
Ever since the declaration of Zhavame village, 80 kilometers from Kohima, as a “Vegetable Village” in 2010 by the Nagaland Horticulture department, the farming community has realized that there is a ‘huge scope’ for revenue generation to boost the local agriculture economy. The village has been ‘seriously’ farming cabbages, other vegetable crops as well, with the support of the Horticulture department. Currently, the total number of households engaged in vegetable cultivation is 550 out of 1,036 in a population of 5, 628. The farmers of this village are highly dependent on vegetable cultivation. The high yield of vegetables is exported to Kohima and Dimapur markets, thereby generating considerable income for the farmers in particular and to the village in general.
In 2009-2010, the annual income generated through the sale of vegetables in Zhavame village was Rs. 50, 67, 235. In 2010-2011 the annual income was Rs. 99, 52, 964 while in 2011-2012 the annual income generation was Rs. 1, 54, 05, 500. During 2012-2013 so far the revenue has reached Rs. 1, 70, 36, 840. Cabbages and potatoes are the two chief crops cultivated by the farmers of Zhavame.
Due to unique geo-climatic conditions Pfutsero under Phek district offers an excellent scope for growing different types of horticultural crops. Even during rainy season, vegetables can be cultivated as the high altitude provides a productive ecosystem.
The annual approximate production of vegetables from 9 villages under Pfutsero range during 2011-2012 accounted for 10078 MT (see table) out of which, 40% (4031.2 MT) was locally consumed and 60% (6046.8 MT) was commercially marketed. From amongst the 9 villages of Pfutsero range, the scale of vegetable production was higher in Zhavame village, a source said.
Nagaland being an agriculture-based economy, the Horticulture department is putting all efforts in promoting the horticulture sector by implementing important programs and employing strategies. It can be observed with optimism that the Horticulture department would be a major contributor to the rural economy in Nagaland in the years to come.
