SIDBI and Assam Rifles Host Grassroots Skill Workshop in Kohima

Kohima: The Small Industries Development Bank of India joined forces with Assam Rifles on October 13 to host an enterprise development dialogue at Oriental College in Kohima. The event focused on building job skills for the local community. REACHA acted as the implementation partner, and the college sponsored the day of workshops. The event kicked off with a traditional dance performance by students.

Col. Manish Sankhyan, Commandant of 13 Assam Rifles, told the crowd that youth and local communities remain the primary drivers of progress. He challenged the students to embrace change while holding onto their traditional roots. He noted, "The Nagas had a natural gift of hospitality and that Nagaland’s spirit of community engagement was among the best in the country." Sankhyan pledged that his unit would provide the infrastructure needed to back community-led ideas.

Oriental College principal Dr. Watinaro Longkumer framed the event as a vital step toward transforming the state. She argued that students need more than just academic degrees to secure work. She thanked all parties for their focus on community empowerment. Setuolie Theünuo chaired the session, while Betonika L. Chishi from REACHA set the tone for the discussions. REACHA members Mudit Pant and Chanchi walked the audience through their project goals, followed by testimonies from trainees who found success after completing the program. Chanchithung closed the event with a vote of thanks.