Nagaland government and its farmers must act strategically to capitalize on emerging opportunities. With the right preparation, Nagaland can transform its agricultural sector into a sustainable and profitable enterprise, benefiting not only subsistence farmers but also attracting educated youth to farming as a viable and modern career path.
As seen in recent inspections by the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), a key challenge is ensuring that government projects are executed efficiently. The issue of mismanagement and substandard work in projects like the Zungki Valley Fishery Project signals a need for stronger oversight in rural development initiatives. Proper management of agricultural infrastructure is vital for the success of farming enterprises and can directly influence the livelihood of rural communities. Moreover, the Union Agriculture Ministry’s recent National Conference on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) under the Digital Agriculture Mission signals a transformative moment for Indian agriculture, including Nagaland.
The development of platforms like Agri Stack, a Farmer Registry, and Decision Support Systems will revolutionize how farmers access services, apply for government schemes, and manage their lands. Nagaland’s government should actively collaborate with the Central Government to integrate these digital tools, ensuring that farmers in remote areas benefit from the same technological advancements as those in larger agricultural states.
Agriculture is no longer an occupation reserved for illiterate subsistence farmers. In today’s world, it is an industry driven by technology, innovation, and research. From precision farming and organic practices to value addition and agri-entrepreneurship, the sector offers numerous opportunities for economic growth.
Educated youth, equipped with technical knowledge, can harness these innovations to enhance productivity, ensure sustainability, and access larger markets. This shift not only modernizes farming but also creates new avenues for job creation and rural development.
For the Nagaland government, a multi-pronged approach is necessary to help farmers reap the benefits of this transition, including attracting educated youth to undertake farming as a profession. By taking up agriculture as a profession, young people in Nagaland can become the drivers of rural development, reducing unemployment and ensuring food security.
By modernizing agriculture and encouraging youth involvement, Nagaland can turn farming into a respected and lucrative profession. With the right policies and support, the state’s agricultural sector can thrive, contributing to both economic growth and food security.