The Nagaland Centre for Human Development (NCHD-IT) has inaugurated a Community Seed Bank at Tethuyo Village in Kiphire district. The facility was formally inaugurated during a programme attended by L. Tethsolen, Chairman of the Tethuyo Village Council, as the chief guest. The programme began with an invocation prayer offered by Teresa, Women Pastor of TBC.
Addressing the gathering, Tethsolen said increasing dependence on external seed sources had resulted in repeated expenditure for farmers each farming season and the gradual loss of indigenous seed varieties. He said the establishment of the seed bank marked an important step towards restoring local control over agriculture. “With this seed bank, we are taking back control. We are preserving the seeds that belong to our land, our culture, and our future,” he said.
He added that the seed bank would function not only as a storage facility but also as a centre for learning and shared responsibility. Farmers will be trained in seed selection, drying, preservation and testing to maintain quality and resilience. The initiative will also encourage seed exchange among farmers to promote inclusivity and collective growth.
Atsoba Anar, Project Coordinator of NCHD-IT, said the seed bank could create income opportunities through the sharing and sale of seeds, particularly as traditional crops are in demand in organic markets. “Most importantly, this seed bank is about independence. We are building a future where farmers are self-reliant, where children inherit seeds that are truly ours, and where communities thrive without dependency,” he said.
Seroba Sangtam, HEA from the District Horticulture Office, Kiphire, assured technical support to the initiative and highlighted the importance of community-led conservation of indigenous agricultural resources. The Community Seed Bank is expected to support biodiversity conservation, sustainable farming practices and the livelihoods of farmers in Tethuyo Village.
