Why Is a Small Nagaland Village Celebrating Oranges?

A small village in Nagaland has once again turned the spotlight on rural prosperity through agriculture. On January 30, 2026, the 5th edition of the Rüsoma Orange Festival began at Rusoma village, located just 10 kilometres from Kohima. What started as a local celebration has now become a symbol of community-driven development, sustainable farming, and rural entrepreneurship. By celebrating its famous oranges, the village is showcasing how horticulture can strengthen livelihoods, preserve culture, and boost the local economy—an important example for current affairs and competitive exams.

Where Is the Rusoma Orange Festival Held

• The festival is held in Rusoma village, located about 10 kilometres from the state capital Kohima.
• Rusoma is widely known for its high-quality oranges, which form the backbone of the village’s economy.
• The location close to the capital has helped the festival gain visibility, attracting visitors, buyers, and officials.
• Over the years, the festival has evolved into a platform that connects farmers directly with consumers and promotes the village as a model for horticulture-based rural development.

Theme and Purpose of the Festival

• The festival is organized under the theme “Abundance of Rüsoma”, reflecting the village’s strong agricultural base.
• The main aim is to promote village welfare, recognise the hard work of orange growers, and encourage rural entrepreneurship.
• By highlighting the unique taste and quality of Rüsoma oranges, the festival seeks to build a local brand identity.
• It also serves as a platform to motivate younger generations to take up farming as a viable and profitable livelihood rather than migrating to urban areas.

Activities and Attractions at the Festival

• The two-day festival features a mix of cultural presentations, traditional performances, and fun games, making it both an economic and social event.
• Stalls selling local cuisine, fast food, fresh oranges, orange saplings, and value-added products are set up by villagers.
• These stalls allow farmers and small entrepreneurs to directly earn income.
• The cultural programmes also help preserve Naga traditions and strengthen community bonding, showing how festivals can balance economic goals with cultural heritage.

Orange Farming: Backbone of Rüsoma’s Economy

• Orange cultivation is central to Rusoma identity and economy.
• Out of 570 households, around 470 households are actively involved in orange farming.
• This high level of participation shows strong community dependence on horticulture. The village has systematically improved orchard management and planting techniques over the years.
• Orange farming here is not just a seasonal activity but a long-term livelihood strategy that supports families, funds education, and improves living standards.

Key Summary at a Glance

Aspect	Details
Why in News?	5th Rusoma Orange Festival begins
Location	Rusoma village, near Kohima
State	Nagaland
Theme	Abundance of Rusoma
Main Crop	Oranges
Households Involved	470 out of 570
Future Target	100 hectares, 25 lakh fruits

Question

Q. The Rüsoma Orange Festival is celebrated in which state?

A) Manipur
B) Mizoram
C) Nagaland
D) Assam