Director of Industries and Commerce, P Tokugha Sumi, along with Deputy Director Hojeto, Joint Director Francis Hekavi and Er Shihoto JE at DIC Zunheboto on February 13. (Morung Photo)

Morung Express News
Zunheboto | February 13
Director of Industries and Commerce, P Tokugha Sumi along with Deputy Director Hojeto, Joint Director Francis Hekavi, and Er Shihoto, Junior Engineer, visited the District Industry Center (DIC) in Zunheboto on February 13. The visit aimed to inspect ongoing development projects and address local industrial challenges.
During the visit, discussions focused on the One District, One Product (ODOP) initiative, with Zunheboto selected as the site for soybean production. Director Sumi encouraged the expansion of the project by promoting secondary products alongside soybeans. The team also visited the site for the proposed Flatted Factory, a major project valued at over Rs 10 crores, which is expected to significantly boost the local industry in the district.
Furthermore, Director Sumi urged General Manager of DIC Zunheboto, Er. N Toky Chishi, to revive the beekeeping farm in Kholeboto and the Lizu farm for oil extraction. These initiatives aim to diversify agricultural products and provide sustainable livelihoods for local residents.
The primary objective of the visit was to assess the challenges faced by District Industry Centers and address any issues that could enhance the effectiveness of ongoing development activities. Director Sumi also praised the renovation work at the DIC Zunheboto office, which had previously been in disrepair for an extended period. He commended the General Manager for transforming the office into what he called the "best DIC office in Nagaland."
In his address, Director Sumi emphasized the importance of strong public cooperation for successful development projects. He noted that relying solely on the state capital would not be enough and that the government must engage with local communities to ensure effective implementation.
The General Manager of DIC Zunheboto presented a proposal outlining the center's history, established in 1974, and its current operations with a staff of 29, including the GM and two FMs. The DIC also manages sub-offices in Aghunato, Atoizu, and Pughoboto and runs several projects such as the beekeeping farm, UNNATI, CM Micro Finance, and PM Vishwakarma schemes.
However, the GM highlighted the need for modernization in office equipment, including furniture, computers, and training tools to better support ongoing projects.