The Wokha District Administration, in collaboration with the North East Institute of Science & Technology (CSIR–NEIST), Jorhat, and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (ICAR–KVK), Wokha, on Thursday launched a major initiative aimed at developing cluster-based cultivation of medicinal, aromatic and floriculture crops in Nagaland.
A preliminary workshop, held at the ICAR–KVK Conference Hall, marked the formal beginning of the project, during which a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the District Administration and CSIR–NEIST. Officials said the partnership seeks to promote scientific cultivation and commercial-scale farming of high-value crops across the district.
The program brought together farmers, scientists and district officials for an orientation on crop potential and market opportunities. Principal Scientist at CSIR–NEIST, Mantu Bhuyan, delivered a session on scientific beekeeping, highlighting its role in pollination, enhanced honey production and livelihood diversification. Fellow Principal Scientist Mohan Lal briefed participants on aromatic crop cultivation, focusing on species suitable for Wokha’s agro-climatic conditions and their commercial viability.
Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR–KVK Wokha, Sandeep Deshmukh, and SMS (Agricultural Extension) BL Mhalo Tungoe interacted with growers during the workshop. The discussions were facilitated by Anuranjan Singh, Project Manager, District Administration, who addressed farmer queries and outlined the next steps for cluster formation and field-level implementation.
Participants collectively identified chamomile as the priority crop for large-scale plantation under the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants initiative. Gladiolus was also selected as a promising floriculture crop, given its strong demand and adaptability to local farming conditions. Over twenty growers attended the program and expressed interest in collaborating under the district-wide cluster model.
As part of early-stage support, Quality Planting Materials (QPM) of medicinal, aromatic and floriculture crops provided under the CSIR Aroma Mission Phase III, were distributed to farmers. According to a DIPR report, the initiative is expected to strengthen scientific cultivation practices, encourage value addition and entrepreneurship, and position Wokha as an emerging hub for high-value agriculture in Nagaland.
