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Mizoram Farmer Pi Mari-i to Receive Prestigious UN FAO Award in Rome
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News18•24-09-2026, 11:15
Mizoram Farmer Pi Mari-i to Receive Prestigious UN FAO Award in Rome
- •Z T Lalrithangi, known as Pi Mari-i, a 35-year-old teacher-turned-farmer from Mizoram, will receive a UN FAO award in Rome for her contributions to agriculture and rural development.
- •She is recognized among the ‘FAO 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development’ as part of the International Year of Women Farmers 2026, being one of two Indian women selected from 600 nominees across 131 countries.
- •Lalrithangi successfully transformed strawberry cultivation into a profitable livelihood, expanding from 1,000 saplings in 2024 to over 10,000 plants on two hectares, earning over Rs 10 lakh in 2025.
- •Despite initial government reluctance, she independently pursued strawberry farming, relying on internet tutorials and other farmers, while balancing her role as a mother of three.
- •The award will be presented during the World Food Forum at FAO headquarters in Rome from October 12 to 16, celebrating her dedication and the collective support of her family and the state Horticulture Department.
Key Questions Answered
Z T Lalrithangi, also known as Pi Mari-i, a 35-year-old teacher-turned-farmer from Sangau village in Lawngtlai district, has been selected for the FAO award.
She will receive the award at the FAO headquarters in Rome during the World Food Forum, which is scheduled from October 12 to 16.
She began experimenting with about 1,000 strawberry saplings in 2024 after learning from growers in Siaha district, using internet tutorials and YouTube while relying on family support.
