Advisor KT Sukhalu, IAS (Retd) addressing the first annual general meeting of Musa-Phe Cluster Level Federation in Zunheboto on June 28. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | June 28
The first annual general meeting of Musa-Phe Cluster Level Federation (CLF) under Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM), Department of Rural Development, Government of Nagaland, was held at the multipurpose hall, Zunheboto town on June 28. The event was graced by KT Sukhalu, IAS (Retd), Advisor Food & Civil Supplies and Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Government of Nagaland, as the chief guest.
In his address, the Advisor emphasised the importance of transitioning from consumers to producers to attain self-reliance and financial stability. “Focus should be on becoming producers, as it is directly linked to economic growth and self-sufficiency,” he stated.
Expressing his happiness, he noted that over 2800 potential Self Help Groups (SHGs) members from Zunheboto district are contributing to the national goal of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis. He encouraged the SHGs in Zunheboto by citing successful examples from other districts of Nagaland.
He commended the NSRLM Zunheboto team for organizing the first AGM of the Musa-Phe CLF and for bringing together 1300 households under the SHG umbrella with the goal of poverty reduction and socio-economic upliftment.
The Advisor urged the federation to empower women by providing them with greater space and voice, and encouraged households that are yet to join SHGs to come forward. He further stressed the need for the Federation to collaborate with government, public, and private sectors to ensure last-mile service delivery.
Tokugha Sukhalu also addressed the gathering, urging participants to take responsibility and reduce dependence on government support. “Do not compromise on your rights. Encourage those who are not yet part of SHGs to join, for the financial stability of families, villages, and the district,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, highlighted NSRLM’s crucial role in supporting the economically weaker sections. “Initiated in 2012, NSRLM continues to serve people. While we are still engaged in primary activities, we should now be moving toward becoming job creators,” he said.
He expressed concern over the lack of proper packaging and marketing strategies for local products, despite their quality. “Our products are good, but our packaging and promotion efforts are lacking. After 13 years, we still lack presence on online platforms, and we need to explore markets outside the district. I’m not even sure if we are registered on such platforms, which should at least be available in Nagaland,” he added.
The DC emphasised the commercial potential of local delicacies such as Axone, a Sema specialty. “Why are we not packaging and exporting Axone? The Sumi community is present in almost every district of Nagaland, which could significantly boost consumption,” he stated.
“Poor roads should not prevent us from building strong markets,” he asserted.
He envisioned that by 2047, every SHG should be self-sustaining and also capable of providing employment to others, contributing to the growth of Zunheboto, Nagaland, and the nation. He added that the Federation should aim to become an employer, aligning with the national vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Earlier in, the session was chaired by Kasheli Jakha, President of Musa-Phe CLF with invocation by Inakali Zhimo, Youth Pastor of Sukhalu Baptist Church. An introductory session was conducted by Phoishe Zhimomi, Project Director, DRDA Zunheboto, welcome song by Thuwuni VLO of Lochomi Village, followed by a general overview of NSRLM presented by BMMU staff, Zunheboto. A short drama showcasing the formation of SHG benefits of SHGs, along with personal testimonies, was performed by Nighuna VLO of Asukhomi Village and Ester P Yeptho. The vote of thanks was delivered by Khesheli Zhimo, Assistant Finance Secretary of Musa-Phe CLF, and benediction was said by Ashevi Yeptho from Pughukiphe VLO, Lizu Old.
Earlier in the day, the new office of Musa-Phe CLF was officially inaugurated by Phoishe Zhimomi, Project Director, DRDA Zunheboto.
