Kohima: Nagaland must build stronger value chains to help local producers reach reliable buyers. Project Director Kumar Ramnikant issued this call on October 7 during the Off-Taker Meet 2026 at Hotel Vivor in Kohima. He emphasized that fair prices and sustainable incomes depend on these direct connections.
The event focused on the theme of connecting producers, markets, and technology. Ramnikant highlighted the state’s natural wealth, specifically citing coffee, honey, large cardamom, Naga chilli, black rice, millets, medicinal plants, and wild fruits. He noted these goods offer significant income potential if managed correctly.
A gap exists between supply and market demand. Producers often lack clarity on quality grades, certification, packaging, volumes, pricing, and delivery schedules. Buyers also struggle to see the consistency and quality of Nagaland goods. “A value chain succeeds only when quality products reach reliable buyers at fair and commercially viable prices,” Ramnikant said.
The meeting aimed to create a structured dialogue between these groups. Certification partners now play a vital role in ensuring traceability for community-managed products. Ramnikant demanded better teamwork between government agencies, financial institutions, and producer groups to fix capital and investment needs.
Amarjit Lahkar, a value chain expert for the ELEMENT Project, gave a presentation on project goals. The attendees also watched a video titled Project Awareness, created by Dreamz Unlimited. The Department of Information and Public Relations reported on the event, which was organized by the ELEMENT Nagaland Project under SoCRAN.
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