MLA and Advisor of the Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, Mhathung Yanthan, highlighted the significant economic potential of tapioca during a training program on novel processing and value addition in ethnic tuber crops at Tiyi Hall, Wokha. The event was organized by the ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI), District Administration, and ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Wokha.
As the special guest, Yanthan emphasized tapioca’s resilience to climatic challenges and ease of cultivation, noting that Nagaland is the fourth-largest producer of the crop in India. He highlighted the importance of exploring innovative processing methods to enhance the value chain and improve market access, ultimately increasing income for farmers.
Yanthan stressed the need for collaborative research to improve local tapioca varieties and expand opportunities for value-added products like tapioca flour and starch. He also encouraged continued entrepreneurial efforts and the strengthening of partnerships between farmers, research institutions, and the government to boost both productivity and market opportunities.
With climate change posing ongoing challenges, Yanthan called for adaptive trials to identify the most suitable tapioca varieties for local conditions. He urged for sustained research and innovation to further enhance the economic viability of tuber crops in the region.