Nagaland CM Dr Neiphiu Rio with Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and others during the virtual launching of ‘Mission Coffees of Nagaland’ on May 18. (Photo Courtesy: X @MDoNER_India)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 18
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio said that the state has come a long way since the revival of coffee plantations in 2014–15. “Today, coffee is no longer just an alternative crop-it is becoming a vehicle for sustainable prosperity,” Dr Rio said while speaking at e-launch of Mission Coffees of Nagaland on May 18.
“Today, as we launch this project, we are not just planting coffee-we are planting hope, prosperity, and pride in our hills,” Dr Rio said.
He said that the Naga farmers have shown remarkable resilience and interest, citing that from just 21 MT in 2021–22, production has grown to nearly 73 MT in 2024-25.
This project is designed exactly for that leap. By focusing on two “well-chosen pilot clusters” -Tuophema in Kohima district and Ghotovi in Niuland district - we are creating living models of excellence, he said.
He said that Hi-tech nurseries will ensure quality planting material, modern post-harvest infrastructure including nine washing stations and roasteries will add value at the farm gate, and the ambitious branding and marketing campaign will establish “Coffees of Nagaland” as a premium, traceable, single-origin brand.
The Chief Minister said that the project also beautifully integrates experiential coffee tourism, farm stays where visitors can experience the journey from cherry to cup , which will create additional income streams for our youth and entrepreneurs while showcasing our rich cultural and tribal heritage.
Most importantly, this initiative will provide dignified livelihoods, reduce dependence on jhum cultivation, conserve our forests, and protect our fragile hill ecology, he said.
“It is truly a project of the people, by the people, and for the people,” he said.
Dr Rio assured all stakeholders that the state government will provide full administrative and political support for timely and quality implementation.
The Department of Land Resources has been given clear directions to ensure that every rupee is spent effectively and every beneficiary is empowered, he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Rio thanked Union Minister and Ministry of DoNER for their visionary support and generous funding for this transformative project.
