Agriculture has been a central part of our way of life since time immemorial and it continues to be an important source of food, income, and cultural identity for us today. Notably, agriculture has played a crucial role in the economic development of many countries throughout history, and it continues to be an important sector in many developing economies today. As such, the reasons why agriculture is important for us not only for our food and culture but also for our economic development remains as significant as ever.
According to available data, 71% of the population in Nagaland is dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. However, although there is no readily available data, it can be deduced that 80% of agricultural commodities consumed in Nagaland today are imported from Assam and elsewhere. In Mokokchung, as we celebrate Moatsü – the post seed sowing festival – it is opportune moment for us to reflect on the importance of agriculture. It is in a way cringe worthy to be celebrating a post seed sowing festival when one hasn’t sowed any seed. Our festivals and in fact most aspects of our culture revolves around agriculture. Yet, we have almost abandoned agriculture as a way of life but we continue to celebrate festivals of agriculture. We abandoned old forms of agriculture (like jhum) and also failed to take up new forms of agriculture – which is why we resort to panic buying every time there is a bandh or blockade in Assam!
This Moatsü, let us revisit the importance of agriculture and ruminate on why we are celebrating the festival in the first place.
Agriculture provides a community the ability to produce their own food and maintain control over their food systems. Food sovereignty, in other words. This is important for maintaining our cultural identity and ensuring access to traditional foods that are essential to our health and well-being. In addition, it can help to stabilize local economies and reduce the impact of market food price shocks.
Agriculture is deeply intertwined with our culture, and it plays an important role in preserving traditional knowledge, practices, and beliefs. We rely on agricultural practices that have been passed down through generations, and these practices are often linked to our cultural beliefs. Meaning, agriculture is crucial for our cultural preservation.
Agriculture can contribute to economic development. It can provide income and employment opportunities for us, particularly in rural areas where there are limited economic opportunities. This can help to reduce unemployment and poverty which are key barriers to economic development and improve the overall economic well-being of the community. Investing in agriculture can help to stimulate rural development.
Our ancestors understood environmental stewardship. Traditionally, we used to have a deep understanding of the natural environment and practiced agricultural techniques that were sustainable and respectful of the land. These practices must be revived to help preserve the environment for future generations.
Traditional foods and agricultural practices are often more nutritious and environmentally sustainable than processed foods and commercial agricultural practices. By developing our own agriculture, we can improve health outcomes and reduce our reliance on imported, processed foods.
Agriculture also provides important inputs for other industries. Developing a strong agricultural sector can help to support the growth of other industries, which in turn can contribute to economic development.
In summary, agriculture is important to us for our food sovereignty, cultural preservation, economic development, environmental stewardship, and health and well-being. Investing in agriculture can help to support the well-being of our community and preserve traditional knowledge and practices for future generations. Let that be our Moatsü reckoning for this year.
