Minister for Tourism & Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along highlighted the significance of agricultural prosperity in Nagaland, stating, “When villages prosper, Nagaland prospers. When villages are united, Nagaland is united.”
He was speaking ass the chief guest at the 4th edition of the Cucumber Festival at Aliba village was held on Thursday at the village playground, while Advisor of Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan was the guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, the minister emphasized the importance of consistency and commitment in agricultural work and encouraged the regular scheduling of such festivals.
He also announced that Aliba cucumbers have secured a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone for Nagaland’s agricultural sector, and informed that the festival has been officially added to the tourism itinerary.
Guest of honour Mhathung Yanthan praised the unique off-season cucumbers of Aliba, describing them as a symbol of agricultural transformation in Nagaland. He remarked that their GI registration has elevated the crop beyond a simple agricultural product—turning it into a representation of Aliba’s identity and a source of pride for Nagaland.
The festival recognized two outstanding farmers—Merangkala Imchen (female category) and Limatoshi Kichu (male category) for their exceptional contributions to sustainable off-season cucumber cultivation.
During the event, Advisor Mhathung Yanthan inaugurated the festival stalls, while Minister Temjen Imna Along officially opened the newly constructed Aliba village Log House.
Featuring 26 stalls set up by Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the festival showcased cucumbers, value-added agricultural products, local handicrafts, traditional foods, and beverages.
The event also hosted farmer-scientist interactions, traditional games, and live music performances, celebrating the village’s agricultural heritage and community spirit.