The celebration of “Radio Kisan Diwas 2025” was held at Kobulong, organized by Akashvani Mokokchung in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Mokokchung. The event aimed to highlight the role of radio in agricultural awareness and development while addressing key issues faced by farmers.
Habemo Ngullie, Programme Executive and Head of Programme at Akashvani Mokokchung in his keynote address highlighted the significance of Kisan Vani Diwas, also known as Farmers’ Voice Day, emphasizing its role in recognizing the invaluable contributions of farmers to the economy and society. The day serves as a platform to amplify their voices, acknowledge their struggles, and raise awareness of the critical role agriculture plays in national development.
He pointed out that agriculture remains the backbone of many economies, particularly in agrarian nations like India, where a large section of the population depends on farming for their livelihood. Observing Kisan Vani Diwas provides an opportunity to discuss key issues affecting farmers, such as market access, fair pricing, sustainable farming, and government policies aimed at improving their welfare.
One of the primary objectives of this day, he noted, is to bridge the communication gap between policymakers and farmers. It encourages discussions on modern agricultural techniques, climate-resilient farming, and innovative solutions that enhance productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. Through such initiatives, governments, agricultural institutions, and community organizations can work together to equip farmers with knowledge, resources, and financial support to improve their agricultural practices and overall well-being.
Furthermore, he stressed that Kisan Vani Diwas also serves to highlight the significance of agriculture in ensuring food security and economic stability. It reminds the nation of the dedication and hard work of farmers, who cultivate the food that sustains millions. Promoting youth participation in farming, fostering agri-entrepreneurship, and advocating for policies that support small and marginal farmers are essential aspects of this observance. By recognizing and addressing the challenges farmers face, society can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable agricultural sector, strengthening rural economies and fostering national progress.
Habemo Ngullie expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the KVK Mokokchung Team, Akashvani Mokokchung staff, casual assignees, and all the farmers who participated in the Radio Kisan Diwas program, making it a grand success.
Dr. Keviletsu Khate, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Mokokchung, emphasized the critical role of soil and water in agriculture. He acknowledged the growing Impact of global warming, noting that rainfall patterns have changed significantly, with the rainy season becoming unpredictable.
He highlighted that the government has launched various programs and policies to support farmers. He pointed out that soil testing in Mokokchung has revealed high acidity levels, which negatively affect crop productivity. Despite the presence of essential nutrients, excessive acidity hampers soil health. He also noted that the overuse of salt water and herbicides for weed control has led to the degradation of topsoil.
Drawing attention to successful agricultural practices, he mentioned the example of Chuchuyimlang, where they have stopped the practice of salt water and herbicides for weed control switching to sustainable farming methods for positive results. He encouraged farmers to adopt similar good practices for the benefit of future generations. He further informed the gathering that soil testing is conducted by both KVK and the Soil Department, and farmers can receive recommendations on necessary nutrients for their soil. Additionally, soil health cards are available to those interested.
Discussing farming methods, Dr. Khate acknowledged the challenges of natural farming but expressed optimism about its potential, particularly for crops like millets and Job’s tears. He stressed that integrating these smart crops into natural farming systems could enhance productivity. He also highlighted the government’s push for integrated farming systems, which, though not yet popular in the region, offer significant benefits.
He spoke about the Impact of natural calamities on crops and fields and noted that some earlier schemes had been discontinued by the central government, but Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is available. While many farmers work individually and though having several SGHs, he emphasized the importance of collective farming efforts through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). He explained that in hilly areas, FPOs can be formed with a minimum of 100 farmers, while normal requirement is 300 farmers. Through FPOs, farmers can avail loans of up to ₹2 crore at an interest rate of just 3%.
However, he observed that while many farmers seek infrastructure funding, they often fail to meet the eligibility criteria. He encouraged the establishment of cold storage facilities under FPOs to store agricultural produce efficiently.
Dr. Khate urged farmers to be aware of the various government programs available and stressed the importance of having an educated and active VDB secretary who can guide and assist farmers. He also highlighted the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) which is a centrally-sponsored scheme that aims to increase food production and farm income as another key initiative supporting agricultural development.
Imo Jamir, Block Development Officer of Kobulong, highlighted the significant contributions of Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, in advocating for farmers’ rights and agricultural reforms. He noted that Singh introduced policies focused on land redistribution, minimum support prices, and credit accessibility for small farmers. His efforts strengthened rural economies, ensuring better resources and fairer treatment for the farming community. Singh’s leadership played an important role in shaping India’s agrarian policies, making him a key figure in rural empowerment.
He mentioned that agriculture provides 50% of employment in India, while contributing 20% to the country’s GDP.
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Speaking on rural upliftment, Jamir emphasized that development schemes should focus not only on employment generation but also on income generation. He noted that 70% of rural livelihoods depend on agriculture and allied sectors, making it crucial to implement effective policies for sustainable growth.
He stressed the Importance of the Gram Panchayat Development Plan in empowering villagers by giving them decision-making authority. While elected representatives play a role in governance, he clarified that in Nagaland, local administration functions under the Village Development Board (VDP) rather than the Panchayat system, as per Article 371(A) of the Constitution.
Addressing the issue of farmer participation, Jamir pointed out that while the government introduces various schemes for agricultural development, farmers must actively engage in securing their rights. He urged the gathering to make informed decisions, take advantage of government benefits, and share relevant information with fellow farmers to ensure widespread participation and progress.
In his brief speech on behalf of the farmers, Meyatoshi Farmer emphasized the deep-rooted tradition of farming passed down from their forefathers. He noted that while their ancestors diligently preserved variety of seedlings, many of these have now been lost over time.
Encouraging the gathering to take action, he urged them to prioritize the conservation of traditional seedlings. He observed that in both towns and villages, many people lead simple lives, relying entirely on purchased food rather than engaging in farming.
To sustain livelihoods, he stressed the importance of working hard, smart, and wisely. Looking ahead, he highlighted the need for villages to focus on seed preservation and to understand which crops or plants can best adapt to local soil conditions.
While market demand is essential, he emphasized that the foremost priority should be identifying crops that are most suitable for their region. He also underscored the importance of logistics and seedling management in ensuring sustainable farming practices.
The event also witnessed the felicitation of notable farmers for their outstanding contributions to livelihood upliftment through sustainable farming practices. Meyatoshi Aier from Longjang was recognized for his dedication to livestock and sustainable farming. Imlitoshi Walling from Yimehalu was honored for his efforts in livestock and fishery farming. Temsutoshi from Kobulong received recognition for his commitment to dairy farming and sustainable agriculture.
In addition to the main event, technical sessions were held where Dr. Sarendi Walling, ACTO (Animal Science) from KVK Mokokchung, gave a presentation on livestock health and the importance of providing veterinary assistance to local farmers. He also distributed deworming medicines and vitamin mixtures. Meanwhile, Imtilemla, ACTO (Soil Conservation), conducted a session on crucial topics such as soil testing for sustainable soil management and the use of soil health cards. She provided examples and distributed vegetable seedlings to the participants.
Earlier, the program was chaired by Dr. Sarendi Walling, ACTO (Animal Science) at KVK Mokokchung. The event featured presentations of Anung Ali Kubok by Longjang farmers and Kisu-Luyimer by Mopungchuket farmers. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Imtisenla, ACTO (Agronomy) KVK Mokokchung.
