Dimapur: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio jointly launched the 'Cluster-based Coffee Value Chain Development in Nagaland' project at Sanchar Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday. The event was held virtually, with Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang, Advisor to the Land Resources Department G Ikuto Zhimomi, senior government officials, representatives of the Coffee Board of India, farmers, and entrepreneurs also in attendance.
Project Details and Funding
Chief Minister Rio expressed gratitude to the DoNER minister for his generous support for this transformative project concerning the development of coffee in Nagaland. He announced that Rs 44.06 crore is being provided by the DoNER and the North Eastern Council to the Nagaland Land Resources Department for the project. Highlighting the potential of coffee in the state, Rio stated that coffee is no longer just an alternative crop; it is becoming a vehicle for sustainable prosperity.
Production Growth and Future Goals
From just 21 metric tons in 2021–22, production has grown to nearly 73 metric tons in 2024–25, with the further aim to achieve 50,000 hectares by 2047 under the Viksit Nagaland initiative, Rio said. The project will initially focus on two pilot clusters: Tuophema in Kohima district and Ghotovi in Niuland district, which will later be extended to all districts of Nagaland.
Infrastructure and Branding
The pilot project will be equipped with hi-tech nurseries to ensure quality planting material, modern post-harvest infrastructure including nine washing stations and roasteries to add value at the farm gate, and a branding and marketing campaign to establish 'Coffees of Nagaland' as a premium, traceable, single-origin brand. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the entire coffee value chain, from cultivation to consumer.
About the Author: Bhadra Gogoi, based in Dimapur, has been reporting on Nagaland's politics, society, and major events for the Times of India for more than four years, providing in-depth coverage and local insights that have made him a key chronicler of the state's contemporary issues.
