The second day of the ongoing Banana Festival 2025 at Wokha Public Ground witnessed continued enthusiasm with a variety of competitions, technical sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities held under the theme “Banana for Food, Fibre and Future.”
The day began with a Fancy Dress Competition, where participants displayed creative costumes inspired by banana plants and their diverse uses, including traditional methods of using banana leaves. The event aimed to promote creativity and awareness on the multiple benefits of the banana plant.
This was followed by a series of technical sessions focusing on empowering farmers and entrepreneurs. The second session highlighted value addition, showcasing innovative methods for processing bananas and their by-products to generate more income for local growers.
Dr KN Shiva, Principal Scientist at the ICAR–National Research Centre for Banana, Trichy, shared practical insights on improving processing and preservation techniques to enhance the value and longevity of banana produce.
The third session, held in the afternoon, centred on marketing and sales strategies, encouraging participants to explore wider market linkages and promote banana-based products beyond local boundaries.
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At the evening prize distribution session, the Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan expressed appreciation to all departments, sponsors, and entrepreneurs for their cooperation and contribution to the success of the event. He stated that the Banana Festival marks only the beginning of greater initiatives, urging all to make use of banana-based products and by-products not only during the festival but throughout the year.
He further noted that the festival has become a model event for others to learn from and expressed hope that it will become an annual celebration. While acknowledging minor challenges as part of a first-time initiative, he described the festival as a learning experience that will help improve future editions.
The Advisor also lauded the farmers for their sincerity and hard work, encouraging them to make full use of such opportunities. He expressed confidence that with continued collaboration among departments, entrepreneurs, and farmers, Wokha District could emerge as an agricultural hub at the national level.
Addressing the gathering, Dr S Hazarika, Director of the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, highlighted the challenges and dedicated efforts that went into conceptualising and executing the event. He stressed the importance of adopting the right approach and maintaining consistency for the long-term success of the festival’s objectives.
Dr. Hazarika also assured continued support from ICAR, including the introduction of technological innovations, long-term research partnerships, and strategies for sustained development. He reiterated ICAR’s commitment to uplifting the regional economy and advancing the goals outlined in the Vision Document on Banana, particularly through scientific collaboration and farmer empowerment.
With the final day of the festival set for Friday, participants and visitors alike expressed optimism that the event will continue to inspire innovation and strengthen the agricultural sector in Nagaland.
