Nagaland exported around six metric tons of fresh oil palm seeds, collected from Jalukie, Niuland and Chümoukedima, to Mizoram on Thursday. The consignment, in a first, was flagged off for Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL) Processing Mill in Mizoram by director of agriculture, M Ben Yanthan at Nagaland State Agricultural Produce & Livestock Marketing Board (NSAPLMB), Agri Expo.
Addressing a small gathering before the flag-off ceremony, Yanthan commended the dedication of the department for spearheading the “Buy-Back initiative for Oil Palm seeds”.
He spoke on the importance of continuing to honour the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state government and GAVL on January 9, 2023.
After signing the MoU, Yanthan said GAVL swiftly established nurseries within 60 days and expressed their readiness to construct collection centres throughout the state in areas with substantial production.
The director also advised the officials of the department not to be complacent but to continue supporting the local farmers.
Managing director and CEO NSAPLMB, N Jacob Yanthan highlighted the gathering on the NSAPLMB’s history of assisting agricultural community since its inception.
He informed that NSAPLMB was in the process of procuring 100 metric tons of onions from Maharashtra on a trial basis, in addition to plans to introduce potato, Kashmir apple, and garlic.
In a short message, senior officer, GAVL, Dr. Toshi said the company currently has five team members posted in Chümoukedima, Peren, and Niuland districts, with plans for further recruitment.
Highlighting the gathering about “operation” conducted in oil palm fields, Dr. Toshi expressed concern “over lack of farm maintenance, lack of proper maintenance of spacing and lack of pollinating weevil.”
Further, Dr. Toshi assured that GAVL was committed to collaborating with district officers, state government, and farmers, as they consider them as partners and not just sellers.
The flag off programme was chaired by joint director of agriculture, Z Hukhato Sema, a brief report on oil palm seeds was given by subject master specialist, NMEO-P, Ronchamo Kikon, and vote of thanks was delivered by deputy director, agriculture, Dr. Beremjungla.