After more than six years of intensive work across some of Nagaland’s most challenging agricultural landscapes, the ambitious Fostering Climate Resilient Upland Farming System in the Northeast (FOCUS) project officially marked its conclusion at a state-level workshop held on June 3 at De Oriental Grand Hotel, Kohima.
The workshop, attended by senior officials and stakeholders, celebrated what was described as a “significant milestone” for climate-resilient and inclusive agricultural development in Nagaland.
Delivering the keynote address, Additional Chief Secretary & Mission Director, FOCUS, Wezope Kenye, IAS, declared the project a success, crediting “a shared vision, collaborative spirit, and the determination of all stakeholders who have contributed to the project’s success.”
“FOCUS represents the first Externally Aided Project (EAP) in the agriculture sector of Nagaland implemented in partnership with IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development),” Kenye said. “It marks a pioneering step in our efforts to strengthen farming systems and improve agricultural incomes across the state.”
Launched on January 25, 2018, the project aimed to empower Nagaland’s upland farming communities with climate-smart techniques and infrastructure. Originally scheduled to conclude by March 31, 2024, the project was extended due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the hurdles, FOCUS reached an impressive 645 villages across 9 districts, directly benefitting approximately 1.18 lakh households, amounting to 89% of its target group.
Kenye underlined the urgency and relevance of the initiative in Nagaland’s agricultural context. “With over 70% of our population reliant on agriculture for their livelihoods, this project has been instrumental in initiating transformative change. It has not only enhanced income generation opportunities but has also built climate resilience and empowered farming communities to adapt and thrive.”
According to the Mission Director, FOCUS has created and strengthened vital agricultural and allied infrastructure — from community seed banks and market access facilities to logistical assets like refrigerated vans. “These will ensure long-term support to farming communities,” he said.
State Project Director Ramnikant Kumar, IAS echoed the sentiment in his address, noting that the workshop “marks not just the conclusion of a project, but the culmination of years of collaboration, dedication, and tireless efforts.”
Providing a brief overview, Kumar stated that the project was designed to “develop, demonstrate, and upscale sustainable land and crop management practices” and to “increase agricultural income of 1,18,000 households” across the targeted districts.
He revealed that the project reached 86% of its targeted households (1,02,245 HHs) with a range of interventions including Improved Jhum cultivation, value chain development, and market access infrastructure.
“FOCUS has also gone beyond its initial scope by building a repository of knowledge,” Kumar added, pointing to “technical materials, community procurement guidelines, land resource inventory maps, and agriculture-related data” now developed under the project.
He urged participants to view the workshop “not just as a conclusion, but as a platform for learning and exchange, a space to build from this foundation for the future of agriculture and rural livelihoods in Nagaland.”
A slide presentation by Piyush Kanal, Country Program Analyst, IFAD Country Office, outlined the project’s reach and impact through visuals and data.