The Fostering Climate Resilient Upland Farming System in the Northeast (FOCUS) project in Nagaland officially concluded with a state-level workshop held in Kohima on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the state’s agricultural development efforts

According to a report from the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Additional Chief Secretary & Mission Director of FOCUS, Wezope Kenye, hailed the project’s successful completion as a landmark achievement in strengthening upland farming systems and boosting agricultural incomes. He underscored that the project exemplified a collective vision, shared responsibility, and persistent efforts by all stakeholders.

“FOCUS stands as the first Externally Aided Project (EAP) in Nagaland’s agriculture sector, implemented in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD),” Kenye noted. He emphasized agriculture’s central role in driving rural development in the state, where over 70 per cent of the population depends on farming for their livelihood.

Launched on January 25, 2018, the project was initially scheduled to conclude by March 31, 2024, but was extended due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, FOCUS successfully reached 645 villages across nine districts, directly impacting approximately 1.18 lakh (118,000) farming households—covering nearly 89 per cent of the intended beneficiaries.

The initiative brought transformative changes through infrastructure development, improved market access, and value chain enhancements. Key investments included the establishment of market access facilities, community seed banks, and the provision of refrigerated vans, all aimed at strengthening the resilience and profitability of upland farming communities.

State Project Director of FOCUS, Ramnikant Kumar, described the workshop as more than a formal closure, calling it a symbol of years of collaborative work and determination. He noted that 86 per cent of the target group—around 1.02 lakh households—were reached, with focused interventions on Improved Jhum (shifting cultivation), value chain development, and enhanced market connectivity.

The project also contributed to knowledge creation through the development of technical manuals, procurement guidelines, land resource inventory maps, and sectoral assessments. Kumar encouraged participants to view the event as a platform for future learning and sustainable rural development.

As Nagaland reflects on the achievements of the FOCUS project, the state sets a precedent for inclusive, climate-resilient, and market-oriented agricultural models in the Northeast and beyond.