The North East Festival of Rice – Grains of Heritage was celebrated on 26th of February 2026 at the Exposition Hall, Agri Expo, Chumoukedima. The event funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC), Shillong was organized by Indian National Trust for Art & Culture Heritage (INTACH), Nagaland Chapter in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, Kohima; NEZCC under the Ministry of Culture, Dimapur; ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema; ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam (Barapani), Meghalaya; ICAR–Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR), Hyderabad; ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI), Cuttack; and the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS), Nagaland University, Medziphema.
Addressing the gathering, Advisor for Agriculture, Nagaland, Mhathung Yanthan expressed deep honour in inaugurating what he described as a “visionary and historic initiative.” He lauded INTACH Nagaland for conceptualising the festival with conviction and courage, noting that organising a regional agri-focused event of such magnitude requires commitment and foresight.
Highlighting the cultural significance of rice, the Advisor said that rice is not merely an agricultural commodity but life, identity, and heritage for the people of the Northeast. “From cradle to grave, rice accompanies us. It sanctifies our festivals, anchors our harvests, and shapes our oral traditions,” he remarked.
He underscored that the Northeast is globally recognised as a hotspot of agro-biodiversity, with Nagaland alone reportedly having over 200 identified indigenous rice landraces adapted to specific microclimates and terrains over centuries. He cautioned, however, that many traditional varieties are at risk of degeneration and called upon scientists, researchers, and stakeholders to deliberate intensively on their conservation and scientific advancement during the two-day workshop.
Drawing attention to climate change and its impact on agriculture, he noted that erratic rainfall, floods, droughts, and pest outbreaks pose serious challenges to our food system. He emphasised the need to develop climate-resilient and short-duration rice varieties that ensure higher productivity while preserving traditional germplasm. “While we hold on to our heritage, we must also provide practical solutions to farmers,” he stated.
The Advisor further stressed that sustainability for the ancestors was a way of life, rooted in respect for land and community. Protecting rice, he said, also means protecting rural economies, artisans, weavers, millers, and food processors whose livelihoods depend on agrarian systems.
Encouraged by the participation of students and youth, he urged young people to understand seeds, soil, and farmers as living relationships rather than academic concepts, so they may grow into responsible scientists, policymakers, and custodians of the land.
Informing the gathering, he announced that the state has framed a new Agriculture Policy 2026, which has been approved by the Cabinet and will soon be implemented. He expressed hope that recommendations emerging from the festival’s deliberations would guide the effective implementation of the policy.
Concluding his address, he reaffirmed the collective responsibility to conserve seed heritage, honour farmers, empower youth, and sustain rice-based livelihoods across the Northeast. Declaring the festival official inaugurated, he expressed hope that the Festival would become a regular platform celebrating the region’s agricultural wisdom and cultural richness.
Delivering the welcome address, Sentila T. Yanger, Padmashree and State Convenor of INTACH Nagaland Chapter, followed by a symbolic sowing of rice seeds, symbolizing renewal, prosperity and respect for the agrarian traditions of the Northeast. An opening prayer was pronounced by Rev. Lipok Jamir, Pastor of Ao Baptist Church, Diphupar.
The programme also featured special guest remarks by Dr. Sandeep Ghatak, Director, ICAR, Umiam; Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Umiam, Sanuzo Nuinei, Director, Department of Agriculture, Nagaland and Dr. Prashanna Gogoi, Director, NEZCC, Ministry of Culture & Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee. The speakers emphasized sustainable agricultural practices, research support for farmers, and the need to promote traditional grains in the face of modern challenges.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mefutiba Longkumer, Co-Convenor of INTACH Nagaland Chapter.
(Limatoshi, IA Chumoukedima)
