‘Made in Nagaland’ initiative, one year after

Empowering local entrepreneurs, contributing to state’s fledgling economy 

Ketholeno Neihu 
Kohima | June 27

‘Made in Nagaland Centre Kohima’ in its completion of a year today has promoted at least 127 local entrepreneurs and sourced 200 local goods and products. In an educated guess, the ‘Made in Nagaland’ has made revenue of about Rs 35 lakhs since inception, which is notable for a state which hardly has any avenue for income.  

Youth Net Director, Lezo Putsure who has been at the forefront of the ‘Made in Nagaland’ initiative said it has been a wonderful and challenging journey. This can be considered a landmark initiative in promoting local products and empower young entrepreneurs in the state, he opined. 

The pleasant ambience of the Made in Nagaland Expo Centre which is located near Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima now attracts a monthly footfall of around 350 visitors, Putsure said during a tête-à-tête with The Morung Express in Kohima. 

The objective of the expo centre is to provide exposure and a centralized platform for local entrepreneurs to promote their products and services within and outside of Nagaland.

Designed with precision to accommodate variety of products under one roof, the expo centre houses various works, products and services of talented Nagas and entrepreneurs, ranging from shawls, mekhelas, trousers, crafts, jewelleries, food products, soaps, foot wears, literatures etc.

Above the expo centre, The Food Hub, with its tagline ‘good time, great taste’ has 5 food stalls run by local Naga entrepreneurs namely- D Café, B&I, Medley Delight, Sumi Chuka and Bambusa. 

Pointing out that the expo centre has been a good contributor to the state economy, Putsure was confident that the ‘Made in Nagaland’ initiative can help minimize the figure of unemployment rate which has turned into a crisis in the state. He said the support of the government also becomes vital in promoting the local entrepreneurs. 

Imtisangla Jamir, manager of Made in Nagaland Expo Centre said best efforts have been given to promote local products and entrepreneurs through the project. Considering the accomplishment, she suggested that it was time to look into the arena of more production for exports of local products. 

Vivito Yepthomi, co-founder of the Nagaland Coffee said their product has received a considerable amount of exposure and recognition through the partnership with the Made in Nagaland initiative.  According to the entrepreneur, at least 750 packets of coffee worth Rs 1.5 lakh have been retailed in the last one year through the expo centre. 

For Vivotsono Kense, Proprietor of B&I café, loyal customers has mostly been government employees at the Secretariat who at times lands her bonuses by way of food/ catering orders for the government offices there.