Stress Laid on Marketing Agricultural Products Outside Nagaland

* Training programme outlines policy guidelines for industrial development

KOHIMA: Department of Industries & Commerce in partnership with Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) organized a two-day training programme on ‘Development of Experts in Nagaland’ from June 27- 28 at the Conference Hall, Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Kohima. At the inaugural session, Director of Industries & Commerce, K Hokishe Assumi while delivering the keynote address mentioned the importance of coordination amongst line departments in order to promote export of our produce on a large scale.

He stated that “The mode of our cultivation is largely ‘subsistence’ which means we cultivate only for our consumption and not for commercial purposes.” Therefore, he urged the participants to encourage the growers and motivate the entrepreneurs to develop on a large scale so that they can export their produce outside the State. At the same time, he also emphasized on the importance of ‘patience and self sacrifice’ which he said was the most important factor for an entrepreneur to become successful.

On markets, he said that our land is fertile and conducive for any type of vegetation, particularly agri and horticultural produce. Yet we are not being able to channelize where to sell those exotic fruits. As such, he urged the participants especially the officers to come forward and help the public so that they can live a better life.

The purpose of the training was to provide the necessary policy guidance for industrial development in the State. It also explores and formulates technically feasible and economically viable industrial programmes and projects. The department has been implementing many developmental programmes, activities and schemes in order to create more self employment avenues in the small scale and tiny and cottage industries sector.

Therefore, the main task of the department is to guide and act as a facilitator to the progressive farmers and prospective entrepreneurs in setting up and run an industrial venture successfully. Considering the absence of export products in the State despite its rich potential, the department proposed to organize an export oriented training programme to develop experts. The targeted participants comprise of representatives from various allied government departments like Industries & Commerce, Agriculture, Horticulture, Veterinary & Animal Husbandry, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Land Resources, Sericulture, Nagaland Honey Mission, Nagaland Bio Resources Mission, etc.

Also Read: NAGALAND DIARY