Harnessing Nagaland’s consumption trends

Moa Jamir

A recent nationwide survey by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) provides interesting insights into household consumption patterns in Nagaland. The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) Fact Sheet 2023-24 reveals a 17% increase in average expenditure for rural households, rising from ₹4,393 in 2022-23 to ₹5,155. Urban households recorded a 12% increase, from ₹7,159 to ₹8,022. These figures, though potentially a mixture of inflationary pressures and improving living standards, are significantly higher than the national averages, and highlight distinctive spending trends in the state.

While the HCES 2023-24 outlines a broad national outlook, it does not provide state-specific details on expenditure categories. However, a thorough comparative analysis with inferences from previous reports, as well as related official data, offers crucial insights and helps contextualise Nagaland’s consumption habits.

As instance, as per the complete HCES 2022-23 report, in rural areas of Nagaland, out of a total Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) of ₹2,276.96 on food items, ₹652.53 (approximately 28.65%) was spent on ‘Egg, Fish & Meat’ in 2022-23. Similarly, in urban areas, out of ₹3,036.61 spent on food items, ₹868.56 (around 28.60%) was spent on ‘Egg, Fish & Meat’.

This pattern aligns with findings from the NSS 68th Round (2011-12), reflecting similar preferences for meat and related items in Nagaland. According to the NSS 68th Round, out of ₹1,043.14 MPCE on food items in Nagaland, ₹307 was spent on ‘Egg, Fish & Meat’. The urban counterpart spent ₹299.73 out of ₹1,085.50 MPCE on food items.

A similar pattern, despite a gap of a decade, underscores the State’s enduring preference for animal husbandry products.

Despite strong demand, Nagaland faces a significant production shortfall in animal husbandry products. According to the Annual Administrative Report (AAR) 2022-23 of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Nagaland produced only 45.07% of its requirements of animal husbandry products, resulting in a shortfall valued at ₹2,490.72 crore annually. This gap is partially bridged by imports, which amounted to ₹276.69 crore in 2022-23.

Nagaland’s consumption patterns and its production shortfalls present both challenges and opportunities. The strong preference for meat and related products represents significant economic potential that remains untapped due to systemic gaps.

The AH&VS’ yearly reports consistently highlight the vast potential offered by the demand-supply gap in livestock products. However, a concrete plan of action is missing. The aforementioned figures also illustrate the State’s relatively higher consumption levels and underline the need for structural reforms to reduce import dependence and bolster local production.

While the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative 2.0 offers schemes to promote livestock and poultry entrepreneurship, a comprehensive and dedicated policy is essential to holistically address the state’s needs. This policy must align local production with consumption demand, reducing the State’s reliance on imports. Beyond immediate rearing or production units, it should emphasise developing robust infrastructure, addressing logistical challenges, and enhancing marketing strategies.

As noted, the consumption patterns, when viewed alongside its production shortfalls, present both challenges and opportunities. With targeted and strategic interventions and visionary policies, the state can transform its consumption-driven economy into a model of sustainable and inclusive development.

For any feedback, drop a line to jamir.moa@gmail.com
 



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