The Dimapur District Ladies Club (DDLC) in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture and the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) organised “Colours of Spring” flower show at the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland premises, Forest Colony, Dimapur on February 19.
The DDLC marked a significant milestone with the revival of its much-awaited flower show after 17 years, celebrating spring as a season of renewal, vibrancy and fresh beginnings.
Lady wife of the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chief Patron of DDLC, Kaisa Rio, gracing the occasion as the Guest of Honour, expressed her appreciation to the Department of Horticulture and IDAN for their valuable support and partnership. She remarked that such collaboration reflects how institutions and civil society can work together towards a shared purpose.
Referring to the theme “Colours of Spring,” she said it was most appropriate, as spring symbolises renewal, hope and new beginnings. She noted that the flower show reminds everyone of the beauty of creation and the quiet yet powerful role nature plays in enriching human lives.
Rio stated that flowers speak a universal language, bringing happiness, calmness and refreshment to the mind while connecting people to the rhythms of the natural world. She emphasized that the exhibition was not only about aesthetic appreciation but also about promoting floriculture, nurturing creativity and providing a platform for flower growers and plant enthusiasts to showcase their talent, innovation and hard work.
She further said that such events create opportunities for growers to connect directly with buyers and promote sustainable livelihoods. At a time when entrepreneurship, self-reliance and green growth are widely discussed, she described initiatives like this as highly relevant.
Highlighting the immense potential of floriculture in the state, Rio said it can emerge not just as a hobby but as a viable economic activity. With proper support, training and market linkages, she added, it can significantly contribute to income generation, particularly for women and youth. She remarked that development is not only about infrastructure and statistics but also about nurturing skills, culture and human connections. In conclusion, she encouraged everyone to appreciate the dedication behind each floral arrangement, and urged the gathering to cherish and protect nature.
Commissioner & Secretary, Horticulture Department and member of DDLC, Akumla Chuba, IAS, described the occasion as a “comeback celebration” for the DDLC which had successfully hosted seven flower shows aimed at promoting floriculture in the state, possibly becoming the first club to initiate such efforts.
Highlighting the broader objectives of the event, Chuba stated that the programme went beyond visual appeal and sought to celebrate the diversity of life. She informed that seminars on floriculture, dragon fruit cultivation and mushroom farming were organised to equip participants with practical knowledge and encourage them to explore these sectors as viable avenues for employment and livelihood.
She noted that horticulture has emerged as one of the most economically viable sectors in Indian agribusiness due to higher unit returns, with floriculture becoming a significant component attracting new entrepreneurs. Emphasising that the focus of the event was not merely on competition or trade but also on fostering connections and providing a platform for growers, buyers, florists and professionals to interact, exchange ideas and build lasting partnerships.
Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, addressing the gathering, expressed appreciation for the role played by Kaisa Rio, wife of the Chief Minister, describing her as the “quiet wind beneath the wings” of the state’s leadership for her role and sacrifices in public life.
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Metha said IDAN had extended logistical support to the initiative and praised the creativity and innovation of Naga women. He remarked that women in the state are excelling in multiple fields and, in many areas, outperforming men. Highlighting government initiatives, Metha informed that under the Chief Minister’s Microfinance Scheme, women entrepreneurs are eligible to apply for financial assistance, including soft loans and grants. He said IDAN has a dedicated cell to assist entrepreneurs in availing these schemes. He further disclosed that in collaboration with financial institutions such as Bank of Baroda and SBI, soft loans are being extended to flower growers.
He further mentioned that, observing the hardships faced by women vendors selling flowers in local markets under difficult conditions, Metha said the government is exploring plans to establish a dedicated flower market in Nagaland to provide better infrastructure and opportunities for growers.
As part of the programme, daily seminars will be conducted for participants and enthusiasts. A seminar on floriculture will be held on February 19 at 2:00 pm with Watila Longkumer, Proprietor of Naro Ki, Dimapur, as the resource person. On February 20 at 2:00 pm, a session on dragon fruit cultivation will be led by Martin Joror, Horticulture Extension Assistant, District Horticulture Office, Dimapur. The final seminar on mushroom cultivation will take place on February 21 at 11:00 am, with Dr. Sosang Longkumer, Director, Konger Agritech, as the resource person.
The three-day event aims to promote horticulture awareness, encourage participation in floriculture and related activities, and provide a platform for community engagement through exhibitions and educational sessions.
