Kamjong farmers confer on sustainable farming
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 02 2025: Farmers from across Kamjong district held a consultative meeting on "Village Level Geo-Economic Development through Sustainable Farming" on May 1 at the Khamlang village community hall.

The event, organised by Tribal Resource Development Centre (TRDC) in collaboration with Development for Rural People and supported by Tribal Taste, was participated by many from the local farming community.

The four-hour meeting, which began at 11 am, served as a vital platform for the farmers to share their ideas, expertise and experiences with one another.

Among the keynote speakers at the event was Yaruingam Ningshen, an entrepreneur and organic farming promoter.

He opened his address by quoting Genesis 1:1, stating, "God created the heavens and the earth but of nothing," to emphasise that individuals must strive to grow and multiply their wealth through diligence and purpose.

He advocated for the Church to incorporate economics as a core teaching, stressing that earning and acquiring wealth in a fair and transparent manner aligns with Christian values.

He urged the faithful to abandon the misconception that profit-making is inherently sinful, observing that while local churches are becoming increasingly affluent, village authorities continue to face financial hardship.

"We are created in God's image and are called to be responsible stewards of His creation," he said.

Citing the internationally renowned Amul cooperative in Anand, Gujarat, he highlighted the power of collective effort in achieving socio-economic development and called for a similar cooperative spirit within local communities to drive sustainable progress.

Dietician and nutritionist Dr Changmei Shadang highlighted the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related disorders, particularly among the youth.

She blamed excessive screen time, erratic eating habits, and reliance on processed food for declining health.

Dr Shadang recommended a return to traditional diets, including regular consumption of herbal teas and organic produce, with special emphasis on the nutritional benefits of millets as a sustainable alternative to rice.

Farmer and horticulturist Ningreingam Kashung warned of the environmental impact of jhum cultivation and advocated for a shift towards innovative, eco-friendly farming techniques.

He stressed the importance of intercropping to improve soil health and maximise agricultural returns.

Bee-keeping expert Athui Panmei spoke on the economic potential of locally produced honey.

He noted that pure, unadulterated honey could significantly boost the tribal economy if properly harnessed and marketed.

The programme concluded with the distribution of high-yielding varieties of Moringa and Roselle seeds to participating farmers.

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