Nagaland government has been conferred the ‘Distinguished Holistic Organic Developments Award 2025’ at the Organic Festa Asia, organised by IFOAM-Organics Asia, in collaboration with Messe Dusseldorf, held in Shanghai China from September 3 to 3.
Dimapur, September 11 (MExN): The Nagaland government has been conferred the ‘Distinguished Holistic Organic Developments Award 2025’ at the Organic Festa Asia, organised by IFOAM-Organics Asia, in collaboration with Messe Dusseldorf, held in Shanghai China from September 3 to 3.
The award, presented by IFOAM-Organics Asia in collaboration with Messe Dusseldorf, recognises the state's organic practices and promotion of organic produce, an official release said.
The award was received on behalf of the state government by P Tokugha Sema, Director of Industries & Commerce, and Medemshiba, Additional Director of the Horticulture Department.
The state's pursuit of organic status has been driven by the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for Northeast Region (MOVCDNER) initiative and efforts led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the release added.
Naga entrepreneur Lanuakum Imchen, founder of Imchen Tea Products (branded as Cold Mountain Organics), was instrumental in the state getting the recognition. Imchen also serves as the IFOAM-Organics Asia Director of Cooperation and Networking for India and Co-Chair of Young Organics- Global Network (YOGN).
Under Chief Minister Rio, the Nagaland government signed a memorandum of understanding to become a member of ALGOA (Asian Local Governments for Organic Agriculture), a sister organisation of IFOAM-Organics Asia.
Since 2022, Dimapur-based NGO Nagaland Organic Konnect (NOK), led by Dr Akali Sema, has played a significant role in securing the ALGOA membership for the state. Imchen is a founding member and treasurer of NOK. Notable efforts were also made by the IDAN office through its former CEO Alemtemshi Jamir, a retired IAS officer, who was a signatory to the membership agreement during the initial years.
Following its ALGOA membership, the state has actively pursued robust cooperation with IFOAM-Organics Asia, leading to the recognition.
To enhance marketing platforms, the Department of Industries & Commerce and Imchen Tea Products have formed a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for branding and marketing of food products.
Prior to the Organic Festa Asia, representatives from the Department of Industries & Commerce attended the 3rd Organic Districts World Congress from August 25 to 28 in Linqui County, China, co-hosted by IFOAM-Organics Asia and the government of Datong City.
During the Organic Festa Asia, several departments and enterprises from Nagaland participated under the Nagaland India Pavilion.
