UDCRMS expo draws rich array of local produces
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, February 21 2024:
Ukhrul District Community Resource Management Society (UDCRMS) kicked off its two-day Exhibition cum Sales and Seller-Buyer Meet at the Khashimla Women Market Complex in Naga Gate, Hungpung on Wednesday.
With the ribbon cutting ceremony, Ukhrul DC Zuringla Kengoo officially opened the event in the presence of guest of honour ADC CEO David Kashungnao, DPD of UDCRMS Lilly Rose Jajo, DRDA DPO L Ngamreiwung, Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL) president Thingreiphi Lungharwo, and THYSO president Hubert.
Accompanied by the dignitaries, Kengoo inspected each stall and made some purchases, showing her support for the local farming community.
Addressing the gathering, Kengoo stated the local economy hugely depends on the farming community, stressing that the community could grow only when local farmers prosper.
"The roots of farming run deep in the culture of our people, with every household relying on farming as their primary source of livelihood," she noted.
She, however, added that many local farmers face challenges in finding a viable market to sell their goods, despite an abundance of crop production.
"In order to bridge this gap and provide a platform for local farmers to showcase their produce, this event is being organised by UDCRMS," Kengoo noted, describing it as a win-win situation for both sellers and buyers, as it not only provides a market for the farmers but also promotes healthy, locally grown produce for the consumers.
Kengoo also urged local farmers to focus on producing larger quantities of crops and to collaborate with fellow farmers.
She emphasised the importance of joint ventures and working together to increase crop production.
Kengoo went on to advise farmers to venture beyond producing crops only for household consumption and to aim for surplus production to generate income.
She also stressed the importance of fund management for farmers, as it is crucial for assessing the progress and profitability of their business.
She further reminded local farmers that quality products are in high demand in today's market and encouraged them not to compromise on the quality of their crops and to maintain high standards to meet the demands of consumers.
In his address, Kashungnao drew attention to the irony of the situation where the people residing in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts possess extensive cultivable lands yet continue to rely on agricultural goods from the outside.
He appealed to the gathering to show their support to the farmers in the two districts, and enable them to increase their crop production so that they could provide the people with access to healthier options.
According to Lily Rose Jajo, this year marks the 17th edition of the exhibition.
She informed that the UDCRMS had been hosting this event yearly since its establishment in 1999.However, following the conclusion of its NERCOMP projects in 2019, the society was unable to continue the event on a regular basis.
Jajo then appealed for cooperation from all concerned authorities, stakeholders and the public, and expressed her optimism in restoring the event and resuming its annual occurrence from this year onwards.
"One key aspect of this event is the buyer-seller meet, which is scheduled to take place on the second day of the event.
Through this meet, we intend to facilitate discussions and strategise for the future," Jajo explained.
The event showcased a rich variety of local indigenous agricultural produces from both Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, drawing in a large crowd of buyers and sellers.
With 45 stalls set up, the event provided a platform for local farmers and artisans to showcase and sell their quality products directly to the consumers.
From crops and vegetables to flowers and locally produced fruit juices, the exhibition drew a rich array of local products.
It also featured value-added products, traditional craft and traditional costume items, highlighting the diverse skills and resources of the local community.
The event will conclude on February 22 with a valedictory function to be attended by Ukhrul ADC/ADM Nimmi A Khamrang as the chief guest.
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