Union DONER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launching the ‘Mission Coffees of Nagaland’ at New Delhi on May 18. (Photo Courtesy: X@JM_Scindia)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 18
Union Minister of DoNER, Jyotiraditya Scindia said that the launch of Mission Coffees of Nagaland (Cluster-based Coffee Value Chain Development in Nagaland" project) is the beginning of a transformative journey that will position coffee as the true USP of Nagaland and strengthen the economic backbone of its rural communities.
The Minister virtually launched the ‘Mission Coffees of Nagaland’ today from New Delhi in the presence of Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio; Minister of State MDoNER, Sukanta Majumdar; Nagaland Deputy CM TR Zeliang; Nagaland Land Resources Advisor G Ikuto Zhimomi and MDoNER Secretary Sanjay Jaju.
‘Mission Coffees of Nagaland’ is a partnership between the government and the private sector to transform the state’s scattered smallholder coffee landscape into a vibrant, sustainable globally competitive value chain.
Scindia said that the Ministry of DoNER has always believed that the North East is not merely a region of beautiful landscapes but a powerhouse of unique produce and entrepreneurial spirit. He said that Nagaland’s agro-climatic conditions are exceptionally suited for premium Arabica and Robusta coffee.
The Minister stated that with a total investment of Rs. 49.48 crore, the project adopts a focused cluster-based approach with two pilot sites—Tuophema in Kohima district for Arabica and Ghotovi in Niuland district for Robuta.
Through hi-tech nurseries, new area expansion of 400 hectares with proper terracing and soil conservation, modern washing stations, roasting-grinding units, and farm-stay experiences, we are building an end-to-end value chain from seed to cup, Scindia said.
He said that this initiative perfectly aligns with national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Minister added that the state-wide capacity-building programme, in partnership with the Coffee Board of India, will empower thousands of farmers and entrepreneurs.
The branding exercise to create a unified ‘Coffees of Nagaland- Taste of Eminence’ umbrella brand, supported by digital marketing, e-commerce, and participation in national and international fairs, will take Nagaland coffee to premium markets in India and abroad, Scindia said.
Scindia congratulated the Government of Nagaland for preparing this comprehensive DPR with vision and precision. He also appreciated the Coffee Board of India for their continued technical support.
To the farmers and FPOs, he said’ “This is your opportunity to become not just growers but proud owners of a premium global brand. The Government of India stands firmly with you.”