Nagaland University organised a programme on sustainable food systems at Rajiv Gandhi Park, Lumami, on Wednesday, highlighting traditional diets and kitchen waste composting as ways to promote environmental sustainability.
Held under the theme “Adopt Sustainable Food Systems”, the programme was part of BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week 2026, observed from November 1 to 7.
Dr. Lobeno Mozhui, assistant professor in the Department of Zoology, who chaired the programme, highlighted the links between traditional diets, agricultural health and environmental sustainability. She encouraged the consumption of nutrient-rich local dishes such as galho, prepared with rice and vegetables, and cautioned against excessive dependence on commercial food products.
Mozhui also urged people to view kitchen scraps as a resource rather than rubbish, noting that composting organic waste could enrich soil and help restore local ecosystems.
Dr. Lirikum of the Department of Zoology at the university’s Multi-Disciplinary Research Centre (MDRC), the resource person, explained how microorganisms break down organic matter into compost containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which improve soil quality and support plant growth. He encouraged hostel residents to adopt composting, noting that food waste dumped in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
He advised using well-ventilated containers, turning compost every four to five days, shredding scraps to speed up decomposition and monitoring acidity levels to maintain microbial activity.
Introducing the programme, Peter Ki, public relations officer of Nagaland University, linked the initiative to India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, and Mission LiFE. He encouraged young people to take the Mission LiFE pledge through its online portal, available from November 1 to 7.
The university is observing the week through activities on sustainable food systems, avoiding single-use plastics and reducing waste, including e-waste.
The programme was attended by Dr. Tovishe Phucho, chairperson of Mission LiFE, along with university faculty, staff, research scholars, students and service providers from Toti-La Café under the Women Technology Park Incubation Hub.