Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav with officials of the Coffee Board of India and the Department of Land Resources during a review meeting on coffee cultivation and premium coffee potential in the State at Lok Bhavan, Kohima on September 1.
Kohima, September 1 (MExN): Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav reviewed the progress and prospects of coffee cultivation in the State with officials of the Coffee Board of India and the Department of Land Resources at Lok Bhavan, Kohima on September 1.
The meeting focused on strengthening coffee cultivation as a sustainable livelihood opportunity for farmers and exploring Nagaland's potential in specialty and premium coffee production.
The Coffee Board of India made a detailed presentation on coffee cultivation in the North Eastern Region and Nagaland. It was informed that coffee cultivation in the State has grown steadily with support from the Coffee Board and the Department of Land Resources. Both Arabica and Robusta varieties are currently cultivated across several districts.
Yadav reviewed initiatives related to expansion of coffee cultivation, productivity improvement, quality upgradation, mechanisation, training and infrastructure development. The Coffee Board has supported farmers through financial assistance, drying yards, mechanisation and capacity-building programmes.
The meeting also discussed challenges facing the sector, including difficult transportation, poor road connectivity, limited processing infrastructure, climate-related concerns, small landholdings, shortage of skilled labour and limited exposure to international markets.
At the same time, participants identified opportunities in specialty coffee production, organic certification, coffee tourism, value addition, local roasting, café culture, e-commerce and youth entrepreneurship.
The Governor called for a coordinated approach to strengthen the entire coffee value chain, from cultivation and farm practices to processing, branding and marketing. He stressed the need to "enhance farmers' income by promoting quality production and value addition" while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and youth.
The meeting noted the growing coffee culture in Nagaland, with an increasing number of coffee roasters, cafés and entrepreneurs contributing to a local coffee ecosystem. Rising domestic demand and the potential for premium and specialty coffee were seen as opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs.
Yadav expressed confidence that with sustained institutional support, improved infrastructure, scientific cultivation practices and effective market linkages. "Nagaland has the potential to emerge as an important producer of premium coffee in the country," he said.
Officials of the Coffee Board of India and the Department of Land Resources attended the meeting.
