Special guest Yanrenthung Humtsoe, Chairman of MSME-PCI Wokha District along with the participants. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | June 17
The Zukhumki Federation, Chukitong Block, Wokha, under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM), conducted its 3rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) at AG Church, Koio Village under Chukitong block on June 17.
The programme was graced by Yanrenthung Humtsoe, Chairman of MSME-PCI Wokha District, as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, Humtsoe encouraged members to continue striving towards economic empowerment, self-reliance and community development through collective efforts and livelihood initiatives. He described NSRLM as a “valuable platform” that provides opportunities for rural communities, particularly women, to improve their livelihoods and become financially independent.
He urged members to assess the achievements made by the federation over the past two years and identify innovative ideas and practical steps for future growth. Stressing the importance of financial literacy, he said, “Understanding financial management, government schemes, skill development programme and training opportunities was crucial for the success of Self-Help Groups (SHGs).” He also appealed to NSRLM officials to continue facilitating awareness and support in these areas.
Expressing satisfaction over the progress made by many SHGs, Humtsoe noted that several groups had achieved remarkable improvements in their socio-economic conditions. He encouraged members to remain committed and continue working with dedication and enthusiasm.
Speaking on the occasion, Nchumbemo Ezung, Head GB, Koio Village highlighted the positive impact of SHGs and VLOs on the village economy. He stated that the initiatives have helped improve household incomes, promoted entrepreneurship among women and strengthened community participation in developmental activities. “SHGs have empowered women to contribute meaningfully to family welfare, children’s education and village development while fostering unity and cooperation among villagers,” he noted further.
During an experience-sharing session, Lochumlo Kikon recounted the journey of the CIG on Spices SHG, Tsungiki. She said that when the group was initially formed, members had limited understanding of the objectives and benefits of SHGs and often faced challenges that made them consider discontinuing the initiative.
However, with increased awareness, support from Agricultural Technology Management Agency, NSRLM and various capacity-building trainings, the group gradually expanded its activities. Beginning with the production of pickles, ginger candies and juices, the SHG later diversified into chilli and soybean cultivation as well as value-added processing of agricultural products.
The group’s dedication and hard work earned recognition at both district and state levels. In 2018, the SHG received the Best Performing SHG Award in the state during the Aajeevika and Kaushal Vikas Mela organised by Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission. She encouraged other SHGs to remain committed and treat their groups as their own enterprises, stating that sincere effort and perseverance would eventually yield success.
Delivering the welcome address, Janthungbemo N Ezung, BPM BMMU RD Block Chukitong, highlighted the significance of NSRLM in improving the well-being of women and rural households. He stated that SHGs have become an effective platform for promoting self-reliance, financial inclusion and sustainable livelihoods. He also emphasised that the AGM served as an important occasion for reviewing achievements, sharing experiences and strengthening cooperation among member organisations.
The programme was chaired by CLF Executive Committee member from Nungying Village, Nzanbeni Kikon, while Mhonchumo Kikon, Pastor, AG Church, Koio invoked God’s blessings.
The meeting featured the presentation of the federation’s financial report by Ajanbeni Ngullie, Finance Secretary, Zukhumki Federation. The vote of thanks was delivered by Federation President Y Lucy Kikon, while the benediction and grace for lunch were pronounced by Lovungi Kikon, Women Leader KBC.
