Advisor Mhathung Yanthan interacting with the SHGs members during the inauguration of Weekly Bazaar at the Public Ground, Wokha on June 3. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | June 3
In a significant step towards empowering rural communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods, the District Mission Management Unit (DMMU) under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) inaugurated the weekly bazaar by Self Help Group, From Agri-Nutri Garden to Market “An Initiative of SHG Federation" at the Public Ground, Wokha on June 3.
The bazaar was officially inaugurated by Mhathung Yanthan, MLA and Advisor to the Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, who graced the occasion as the special guest.
In his address, Mhathung Yanthan applauded the collaborative efforts of SHG members and the NSRLM team. “This bazaar is a promising step towards building self-reliant rural communities. By connecting gardens to markets, we not only ensure food security but also foster economic empowerment,” he remarked.
He further noted that while the concept of a bazaar is not new, this weekly initiative has the potential to evolve into a vibrant and consistent marketplace in Wokha. “I encourage all SHG members and federations to take pride in this noble initiative. It is a platform that empowers women and farmers by providing them with an opportunity to showcase and sell their products directly to the community.”
Yanthan also emphasised that every initiative must start somewhere, and today's event marks a strong and meaningful beginning.
He also urged better utilisation of existing infrastructure and called on community members to organise and work collectively for their mutual benefit. He encouraged sustained public and stakeholder engagement to strengthen the local market ecosystem further.
A representative from the State Mission Management Unit of NSRLM also delivered a short speech, reflecting on the journey and aspirations of the Weekly Bazaar. “For too long, we have envisioned a dedicated space not merely to buy and sell, but to connect. A vibrant hub where fresh produce arrives straight from farms, and entrepreneurs showcase their talent,” the representative said.
He credited the leadership of the Project Director, along with the dedicated teams, Federations, SHGs, Mahila Kisans, and community institutions, for making the initiative a reality. “Together, we are turning aspirations into reality,” he added. The speaker also emphasised the importance of maintaining product quality, appropriate pricing, and community ownership under the 'Womenfolk' brand, which is dear to the NSRLM family.
The event commenced with an invocation led by Rev Abemo Jungio, Pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church. Zuchibeni Odyuo, Convenor of the District Marketing Committee, chaired the programme and delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of women-led rural enterprises and sustainable local economies.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Daniel Ovung, District Functional Specialist for Non-Farm Livelihoods, who acknowledged the dedicated efforts of all individuals and organisations involved in making the Weekly Bazaar a reality.
The Weekly Bazaar will be held regularly every Tuesday from 6:00 AM at the Public Ground in Wokha.
