Correspondent
KOHIMA, OCT 15 (NPN): Mahila Kisan Diwas 2026 was celebrated in Kohima and Niuland on October 15, highlighting the vital contributions of women farmers to agricultural development, food security and rural livelihoods. The programmes emphasised women’s empowerment, scientific farming practices, agricultural entrepreneurship and sustainable agrifood systems in commemoration of the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF) 2026.
In Kohima, the Department of Agriculture and the State Nodal Office, Extension Reforms (ATMA), observed the day under the theme, “Empowered Women, Transforming Agrifood Systems,” at the Directorate of Agriculture.
Addressing the programme, APC and Commissioner & Secretary, Dr. Zasekuolie Chüsi, highlighted women’s contributions to farming and farm management, stressing the need to promote women-centric technologies, improve access to microfinance and encourage women-led Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
Director of Agriculture, Sanuzo Nienu, informed that the Women in Agriculture scheme had empowered 5,454 women belonging to 348 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across 256 villages over the past 25 years. He added that the Economic Empowerment of Women Farmers scheme was being implemented for 54 SHGs across the state. Joint Director of Agriculture, Dr. Cressida Jamir, also highlighted women farmers’ role in preserving traditional knowledge, indigenous farming practices and agricultural biodiversity.
Outstanding women farmers were felicitated during the programme. Kikrusonuo Sanchu and Lhoulesienuo received awards in the individual category, while Lieyie FSG and Rüziezou Krotho were recognised in the group category. Exhibition stalls set up by women farmers were also inaugurated.
Meanwhile, ATMA Niuland celebrated the occasion at the District Agriculture Officer’s Office under the theme, “Empowered Women Farmers for a Prosperous and Resilient Niuland.”
Project Director, ATMA and District Agriculture Officer, Thepusa Nakro, urged farmers to harness the district’s agricultural potential to improve productivity and strengthen food security. Special guest and Extra Assistant Commissioner, Niuland, Omegali, observed that nearly 80% of the district’s land remained underutilised and called for coordinated efforts to identify a high-potential crop that could become Niuland’s signature agricultural commodity.
The programme also featured experience-sharing by progressive woman farmer Kiyeli of Kuhoxu village, who encouraged farmers to overcome agricultural challenges through perseverance. During the technical session, Dr. Ashwini Ananda, scientist, AICRP on Vegetable Crops, Nagaland University, highlighted scientific practices for improving winter vegetable production, soil health and plant protection. Dr. Bendangla Imsong, Chief Technical Officer, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Dimapur, stressed the importance of simple, low-cost techniques such as proper plant spacing, recommended seed rates and line sowing.
Winter vegetable seeds were distributed to promote seasonal cultivation, kitchen gardening and household nutritional security.
The celebrations in both locations underscored the need to empower women farmers through improved access to resources, scientific knowledge, technology and markets, while strengthening their role in sustainable agriculture and the state’s rural economy.
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