Rev Dr L Kari Longchar officially released and dedicated ‘Jemdangang’ natural green tea in the presence of producers and attendees during a programme held at Mercy Home, Sangtemla Ward, Mokokchung, on November 26. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | November 26
Jemdangang, a natural green tea cultivated in the Wameken Valley under Mokokchung’s Tuli Subdivision, was formally dedicated and launched on Wednesday during a programme held at Mercy Home, Sangtemla Ward, Mokokchung.
Speaking at the event, Lima Longchar shared the journey behind the product’s development. The plantation, located at Tuli’s 10th Mile—about a kilometre from the Tuli railway station—is jointly cultivated by three families: 2 hectares under his care, a little over 1 hectare by Lanu Atsongchanger, and 1 hectare by Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary of the NBCC.
He recounted that the group had initially considered other plantations before deciding on tea. “From the first day we started organic and registered with the Tea Board of India, Jorhat, who also advised us to remain fully organic,” he said. Although the plantation has existed for eight years, plucking began only last year. The absence of an organic tea factory in the region forced them to send their leaves to non-organic processing units, causing considerable financial losses.
The cultivators had briefly considered shifting to non-organic methods, but the risks were too high, while continuing organic cultivation meant expensive transportation. Setting up their own factory was also beyond their financial capacity. After undertaking exposure visits to Assam and to local plantations, the team developed a handmade machine and began small-scale trial production. The name Jemdangang, he added, was coined five years ago by Sentila, wife of Rev Dr Pongener.
Releasing the product and offering the dedicatory prayer, Rev Dr L Kari Longchar commended the effort as a promising example of local enterprise in a state that has long relied heavily on outside support. He stressed the need for individuals, families, villages, and the state to work towards self-sufficiency.
Although Nagaland has abundant resources, he observed, many remain underutilised, creating dependence on established systems and “readymade” assistance. While growing numbers of people express the desire to return to their villages and reconnect with their land, he emphasised that genuine productivity requires skill, scientific knowledge, and practical guidance.
Using Jemdangang as an example, Rev Dr Longchar highlighted the importance of efficient production and strong marketing across all sectors. He expressed hope that the tea would not only serve nearby towns but eventually expand to wider, even international, markets. He reminded youth that reaching beyond local markets is ultimately their responsibility.
Reflecting on the decades since Nagaland attained statehood, he cautioned against what he described as a developing “beggar mentality,” where people expect benefits without contributing through hard work. With determination and God-given strength, he said, every individual is capable of earning a dignified livelihood. He urged all to prioritise productive work to reduce dependency and strengthen a more self-reliant society.
Jemdangang is currently available at Urban Oasis and Unique Bakery, with proposals underway for placement at Vishal Megamart. A stall will also operate during the Hornbill Festival, and supplies to Kohima stores are expected to begin next week. The tea is priced at Rs 3,500 per kg and also comes in 70-gram packs for Rs 250. Though grown organically, the tea cannot yet be officially labelled “organic” as certification requires a three-year process now in progress. The producers stated that plans are underway to introduce Jemdangang to international markets soon.
