The Pathso community celebrated the Chitso Festival on February 24 at Khaushiu Public Ground, Pathso, marking the ceremonial beginning of the annual farming season. The festival brought together villagers, elders, and youth in a vibrant display of cultural traditions, prayers, seeking blessings for a fruitful agricultural year.
Special guest of the festival, MLA Mhathung Yanthan, Advisor for Agriculture under the Government of Nagaland, shared that he was deeply impressed by the region’s cultural richness, noting that Chitso is one of the most significant festivals alongside Khaozaosie-Hok-Ah, reflecting the wisdom and heritage of the forefathers.
He remarked that the area is blessed with fertile soil and hardworking people who demonstrate patience and resilience despite challenges. The Advisor emphasized that it is appropriate for communities to seek God’s blessing. Yanthan also stressed on adapting to changing agricultural dynamics, particularly by understanding climate-resilient crops, varietal changes, and methods to mitigate environmental shifts.
While traditional farming systems have both advantages and disadvantages, the Advisor stressed that their strengths must be preserved even as farmers adapt modern approaches.
Agriculture, he stressed, should not be seen merely as a means of survival but as an enterprise and business, encouraging youth participation through market linkages and value addition. He also highlighted that women are a vital section of society who understand community problems deeply and can become strong policymakers, urging them to be aware of their rights and privileges.
He added that many government schemes exist to empower villages at the grassroots level and should be implemented wisely, noting that the Chief Minister’s priority remains the welfare and advancement of farmers across Nagaland.
Later, Yanthan inaugurated the exhibition stalls of various individuals and organisations.
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Festival host, MLA Benei M Lamthiu, stated that the Pathso area, the easternmost part of Nagaland, though remote, is blessed with fertile soil. He emphasized that agriculture has sustained the lives of their forefathers since time immemorial. With the passage of time and the emergence of a new generation, he noted the growing need to explore ways and means to carry forward and strengthen traditional farming practices.
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture for its guidance and support, adding that the people of the region remain deeply rooted in agriculture and are eager to gain new knowledge and methods to improve their farming systems. He also remarked that unity among the community contributed to the grand celebration of the festival and affirmed that their agricultural practices will now be guided by a new perspective aimed at progress and sustainability.
Community leaders and officials from various departments highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous practices and unity, emphasizing that such festivals strengthen cultural identity while encouraging collective participation in farming activities.
The festival featured culture dances and songs performed by Pathso Nokeng Cultural troupe and Pathso Cultural troupe.
