Meluri, February 14 (MExN): The Department of Industries & Commerce (DI&C) organised Trade Expo–2026 on February 12 at Avakhung, Meluri, with participation from local entrepreneurs, traders, farmers and artisans from the border areas.
The expo was organised as a locally arranged initiative aimed at promoting grassroots commerce, encouraging entrepreneurship and strengthening economic activities in the region, the State DIPR reported.
Citizens of the Phokhungri area, representatives from the district administration, Assam Rifles, PAPO officials and surrounding villages from Meluri district participated in the expo, fostering community engagement and boosting market linkages at the local level, it added.
The DI&C Director, P Tokugha Sema, along with Colonel Iqbaljeet Singh Dhillon, C.O., 39 Assam Rifles, Phek, inaugurated Trade Expo–2026.
Addressing the gathering, Sema stated that the trade expo marks a new beginning for strengthening grassroots trade and economic cooperation in the border areas, enhancing livelihood opportunities and promoting self-reliance.
Various stalls displayed a diverse range of products, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and economic potential of the region. A special awareness session on departmental schemes was also conducted for traders, entrepreneurs, farmers and artisans.
The session coverd the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI) Scheme by Cholzo Sophie, Joint DI&C; the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) by Dapunyi Zholia, FM, Sub-DIC Meluri; the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme; Export Procedures and Documentation by Imsongmeren Imsong, Inspector of Industries & Commerce; and the Uttar Poorva Transformative Industrialization Scheme (UNNATI-2024) by Pepenthung Lotha, Consultant, PIU UNNATI-2024.
Participants were briefed on key benefits, eligibility criteria and application procedures under each scheme.
The Trade Expo 2026 stands as a significant step towards empowering local traders and creating avenues for sustainable economic growth in the region, the report stated.
