In a proud moment for Nagaland and India’s northeastern region, Shri L. Hangthing, a progressive farmer and community leader from Noklak district, has been conferred the Padma Shri 2025 for his outstanding contributions to agriculture and rural development.

Known locally as the “Fruit Man of Noklak”, Shri Hangthing’s innovative approach to horticulture has revolutionized farming practices in the remote hill district and inspired hundreds of farmers across tribal communities.

Shri Hangthing began his journey in 1988 by planting discarded fruit seeds on the rugged terrain of Noklak. Over the next three decades, through trial and error, he successfully cultivated non-native fruits such as kiwi, litchi, and oranges in a region traditionally dependent on jhum cultivation.

In 2003, he established the Jungyam Nursery & Horticulture Farming Society, Noklak’s first plantation nursery, which became a hub for sustainable agriculture and farm innovation.

• Trained over 200 farmers across 40 villages, directly benefiting more than 400 households.
• Pioneered organic farming and introduced modern techniques to tribal communities.
• Founded the Taste of Noklak Society (TONS), promoting local produce under the brand Made in Noklak.
• Helped establish a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) to support agro-based entrepreneurship.
• Encouraged fish farming, providing an additional income stream to local farmers.

Receiving the Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Shri Hangthing became the first member of the Khiamniungan tribe to receive this national honour. His return to Nagaland was met with jubilant celebrations, traditional rituals, and emotional tributes from fellow villagers, tribal leaders, and youth groups.

“This award is not just mine—it belongs to the farmers of Noklak, who chose change over convention,” Shri Hangthing said, addressing a community gathering.

• Indigenous Innovation: Demonstrated that climate-adapted agriculture can thrive in highland regions.
• Cultural Impact: Elevated the visibility of the Khiamniungan tribe at the national level.
• Model of Self-Reliance: Inspired rural entrepreneurship through organic produce and sustainable practices.

Shri L. Hangthing’s Padma Shri is more than a personal achievement—it is a symbol of resilience, self-reliance, and the power of grassroots leadership in building a sustainable and inclusive future.