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The Department of Food Processing, under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, officially inaugurated the two-day fourth edition of the Nagaland Food Connect at Old NST in Kohima on November 3. Gracing the occasion as the special guest, Achumbemo Kikon, Advisor for School Education, SCERT, and Food Processing, urged local entrepreneurs to move away from seeking quick profits and instead cultivate patience, consistency, and long-term commitment for sustainable enterprise growth. Addressing the gathering, Kikon noted that increasing population pressure is placing greater strain on limited land resources, necessitating more efficient resource utilization and refined livelihood strategies. He underscored the critical importance of food safety and hygiene, emphasizing that rigorous standards not only protect public health but also serve to attract investors and build customer trust. To bridge the gap for urban populations lacking direct access to fresh produce, Kikon called for strengthening food processing and preservation infrastructure across the state. In his speech, he elaborated on the “Six Ps” of the food value chain—Production, Processing, Preservation, Packaging, Pricing, and Patenting—encouraging farmers and micro-entrepreneurs to give meticulous attention to every stage of development. He particularly highlighted effective preservation techniques to minimize post-harvest wastage and stressed the need for attractive, durable packaging that fully complies with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requirements to boost consumer confidence. To further bolster local enterprise capacity and safeguard consumer health, Kikon announced that the department is actively proposing the establishment of a state-of-the-art food testing laboratory aimed at ensuring locally produced goods meet stringent national quality benchmarks. He assured all stakeholders, including local farmers and food processors, of the state government’s unyielding support through capacity building and financial schemes. The event began with introductory remarks chaired by Food Technologist Mhasiphizo Khezhie, followed by a welcome address delivered by Kumar Ramnikant, Secretary to the Government of Nagaland for Industries & Commerce and Food Processing. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Y. Chingyak Konyak, Director of Food Processing, marking a proactive step toward fortifying Nagaland’s local food processing ecosystem, enhancing economic self-reliance, and elevating regional products onto the national marketplace.
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