TURA: A daylong food fair to raise awareness on the beauty of indigenous and traditional cuisine as well as the importance of organic and chemical free fruits and vegetables abundance in the region was showcased at Tura police parade ground on Friday.
Organised by the North East Slow Food and Agrobiodiversity Society, the fair laid emphasis on promotion of sustainable development of the sector in this part of the state.
The fair which came to a close in the evening witnessed a steady stream of visitors and consumers eager to get their hands of the rich diversity of local cuisine, fruits and vegetables that were on display for sale at the stalls.
As many as fifteen traditional villages from the Rongram region, including Darechikgre, Dura Kantagre, Bibagre and beyond brought over their produce and items for sale.
“We are emphasising on enhancing indigenous food systems, encouraging nutrition, promoting sustainable livelihoods and food security with special focus on women, youth, adolescent girls and community leaders,” said NESFAS senior associate Janakpreet Singh.
The society is at present working in both Nagaland and Meghalaya to empower as many as 130 villages on similar projects.
According to Mr Singh, the aim of NESFAS is to connect farmers with the producers and consumers.
One of the highlights of the fair was of all fruits and vegetables on sale being completely organic in nature.
The organic spices such as tumeric, pepper and cardamom, pesticide free indigenous vegetables were a major hit with visitors at the fair.
“More awareness is needed on the importance and health aspects of organic farming and holding such fairs will hopefully spread the message to all,” were some of the statements from visitors at the fair.