Nagaland’s Thanamir produces 40-50 tonnes of apples annually

September 11, 2024 6 Views No Comment

Kruse announces processing unit at 15th Thanamir Apple Festival

Morung Express News
Thanamir | September 11

Bordering Myanmar and located in the foothills of Mount Saramati, Thanamir village, known for its organic apples, celebrated its 15th Apple Festival on September 10 under the theme, “Apple For Health, Wealth And Prosperity.”

With the capacity to produce 40-50 tonne of apples annually, varieties of apples are available throughout July to December.

Gracing the festival as the special guest, Minister for Women Resource Development & Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse has announced to set up an apple processing unit for the village.

She expressed hope that this will not only enhance the value of their abundant apple produce, but also create new opportunities for economic growth in the region.

Kruse also encouraged the villagers to take up other crops suitable to their climatic conditions to further boost their economy. She assured of the department’s assistance in market linkages, technical knowledge and support.

Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse addresses the festival. (Morung Photo)

Director of Horticulture, Meyasashi, shared that India consumes 20 lakh metric tonne of apples annually, with over 4 lakh tonne being imported.

He highlighted that Nagaland is one of the six apple-producing states in India, where Thanamir has put Nagaland on the country’s apple map.

He also emphasised that by merging practical experience with technical knowledge, Nagaland’s apples can reach international markets. “If apples can be brought to Nagaland from Himachal Pradesh, why can’t we send our apples to other states?” he asked.

Meyasashi also stressed on the importance of sorting and grading apples based on their variety and taste to build consumer confidence and ensure better market reach.

“This festival not only celebrates the bountiful harvest of apples from this land but also reflects the spirit of resilience, hard work, and unity of our people” said Temsuwati Longkumer, Deputy Commissioner, Kiphire.

While emphasising that transforming Thanamir into an apple farming hub reflects the immense potential of the land and its people, apple farming, he said, can transform the local economy, creating opportunities for income generation, employment etc from harvesting to marketing.

Longkumer also highlighted the crucial role of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in pooling resources, accessing better services, and increasing farmers’ bargaining power. Collective efforts, he stressed, will bring greater success.

He reminded that the growth of apple farming in Thanamir benefits the entire district, and urged the farmers to continue striving for progress, aiming to make Thanamir a model village for apple farming known for its quality, dedication, and innovation.

Later the Minister inaugurated the stalls followed by plucking of apples from thr Mother Tree.

Among others, the festival hosted by Advisor S Kiusumew Yimchunger, was also attended by Advisor W Chingang Konyak.