Longleng farmer achieves sustainable livelihoods through natural farming

Mantuk Phom, a farmer from Apoiji village in the Longleng district of Nagaland, has successfully transitioned his 12-acre farm to a diversified natural farming model. After receiving training from ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Longleng in 2020, Phom moved away from chemical inputs, initially facing a decline in yields before achieving sustainable growth through technical guidance and resource recycling.

His integrated enterprise includes tea, rice, banana, vegetables, livestock, and fisheries, generating an annual gross return of approximately Rs. 14.25 lakh. A significant portion of this income is derived from tea production, which occupies six acres of his land. Phom utilizes various natural inputs, including botanical extracts and preparations like Ghanajeevamrit and Jeevamrit. He has also developed a locally recognized botanical crop protection method known as ‘Mantuckastra’ among the Phom tribe.

Soil analysis indicates improved health and resilience, with phosphorus levels reportedly increasing significantly. The farm now serves as a learning platform for neighboring farmers, demonstrating the viability of mixed cropping, mulching, and livestock integration in sustainable agriculture.