DHEW Zunheboto organised training on organic tea processing at its office premises in Old Town, Zunheboto on June 26. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | June 26
The District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW) Zunheboto organised one-day Training on Organic Tea Processing at its office premises in Old Town, Zunheboto on June 26, with the objective of equipping women with practical skills in value-added tea production and promoting self-employment.
The training focused on the preparation of Green Tea and First Flush Black Tea, and witnessed the participation of 14 women from different parts of the district.
The resource person for the programme was Anatoli V Zhimo, founder of Naga Tea, Zungti Handicraft Tea Zunheboto, who shared both technical knowledge and her entrepreneurial journey with the participants.
Speaking during an interaction after the training, Zhimo said her family had planted tea bushes nearly 20 years ago, but commercial utilisation of the tea garden began only four to five years ago. She said the idea was born out of a desire to make productive use of locally grown tea while creating opportunities for women through locally manufactured products.
She informed that her tea plantation is located at Zungti Village under Zunheboto District, approximately four to five kilometers from Zunheboto town. She added that although she currently manages the enterprise herself, her family members actively assist whenever required.
Zhimo also highlighted the importance of capacity-building programmes in shaping her entrepreneurial journey. She said she had attended several training programmes conducted by organisations such as UNNATI, the Department of Industries & Commerce, YouthNet, and various MSME initiatives, which provided valuable technical knowledge and business exposure.
Regarding marketing, she stated that her products are presently available at organic markets and selected retail outlets, with plans underway to expand sales through Amazon. She acknowledged the support of public representatives and youth organisations in promoting locally produced tea and creating awareness among consumers.
On the production process, she explained that her enterprise primarily uses handcrafted processing methods with equipment such as ovens and dryers. While the current operations require minimal machinery, she expressed hope of upgrading her production facilities in the future as the business expands.
Encouraging young people to embrace entrepreneurship, Zhimo urged educated youths not to underestimate small beginnings. “It does not matter whether your business starts small or big. What matter is your dedication, consistency and willingness to learn. If you give your best to what you do, your efforts will eventually grow into something successful,” she said.
She also emphasised the significance of women's economic empowerment, stating that financially independent women not only uplift themselves but also strengthen their families, communities, and society.
Appreciating the initiative taken by DHEW, Zhimo encouraged women and aspiring entrepreneurs to actively participate in government-sponsored skill development programmes. “Every opportunity to learn should be valued. We should never miss the training and support offered by different departments because these programmes help us become more innovative, confident, and capable of building our own livelihoods,” she added.
