Imphal: Nagaland's push to emerge as a premium coffee-producing destination received a major boost with the launch of the "Coffees of Nagaland" Mission, a ₹49.48-crore initiative aimed at expanding cultivation, strengthening processing infrastructure, and creating new livelihood opportunities across the state.

The project, launched virtually by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, seeks to build an integrated coffee ecosystem in Nagaland through a cluster-based development model. The launch programme was attended by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Minister T. R. Zeliang, Advisor for Land Resources G. Ikuto Zhimomi and senior officials.

Under the initiative, pilot clusters will be developed at Tuophema in Kohima district for Arabica coffee and Ghotovi in Niuland district for Robusta coffee. The project includes the establishment of hi-tech nurseries, expansion of coffee cultivation across 400 hectares, soil conservation measures, washing stations, roasting and grinding facilities, and tourism-linked farm stay experiences.

Scindia said the Ministry of DoNER views the Northeast as a region rich in unique agricultural products and entrepreneurial opportunities. He noted that Nagaland's agro-climatic conditions are well suited for producing high-quality Arabica and Robusta coffee and that the project aims to improve the participation of tribal farmers in the value chain through better market access and income opportunities.

He said the initiative aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat by promoting sustainable agroforestry practices, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. He added that branding efforts under the title "Coffees of Nagaland, Taste of Eminence", supported by digital marketing and e-commerce platforms, would help the state's coffee reach premium domestic and international markets.

Highlighting the sector's growth, Rio said coffee cultivation in Nagaland has expanded steadily since its revival in 2014-15. Production rose from 21 metric tonnes in 2021-22 to nearly 73 metric tonnes in 2024-25, he said, adding that the state has set a target of bringing 50,000 hectares under coffee cultivation by 2047 as part of its Viksit Nagaland vision.

According to Rio, the project will help create modern infrastructure for coffee production while strengthening branding and marketing efforts. He said coffee tourism, including farm stay experiences, could generate additional income opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs while showcasing the state's cultural heritage.

The Chief Minister also said the initiative could contribute to reducing dependence on jhum cultivation, support forest conservation and help protect the fragile ecology of the hill state. He assured full support from the state government for the project's implementation and encouraged farmers to adopt modern cultivation practices.

At the launch event held in Niuland, coffee growers Khevito Sumi and Catherine Zhimomi shared their views on behalf of farmers from Ghotovi, while entrepreneur Vivito Yeptho, proprietor of Nagaland Coffee, spoke about opportunities for the sector's growth.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Nagaland Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen.

BI Bureau