The Nagaland Emporium, located in Connaught Place, Delhi, has undergone a transformation into “an ambassador of Nagaland and the Naga people.” Abu Metha, Advisor to Nagaland Chief Minister and Chairman of IDAN (Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland), made this declaration during the inauguration of the revamped Nagaland Emporium on 6 September 2023. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurated the revamped Nagaland Emporium as the Chief Guest, and Metha hailed it as a “commitment fulfilled in 60 days.”
This transition comes as India gears up to host the G20 summit from 9 to 10 September at the newly constructed international convention and exhibition center, Bharat Mandapam, in Pragati Maidan. It’s worth noting that Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival was chosen to represent Indian culture during India’s G20 presidency on 1 December 2022 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Union Minister of State, Rajeev Chandrashekhar, who served as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony, emphasized the emporium’s importance, stating, “It is more than just an emporium as it showcases the talent and capabilities of Nagaland at the backdrop of G20. PM Narendra Modi Ji’s Government is committed to partner with every micro-entrepreneur in every district of Nagaland to help them access wider markets.”
Chandrashekhar also observed that Nagaland is full of opportunities because of their “deep micro entrepreneurial capabilities in traditional arts and handicrafts.”
Abu Metha shared his vision for the Nagaland Emporium, stating, “This is not merely a retail space. Our aim is that every visitor who steps into this unique space must get inspired to learn more about Nagaland and get interested to visit the Land of Festivals; and every Naga who visits must feel proud to be a Naga.” Metha also extended gratitude to the Nagaland Chief Minister for advancing “Nagaland towards a State Of Excellence.”
He further underscored that the real beneficiaries are the creators, manufacturers, and artisans at the grassroots level. He said, “This initiative aligns with our commitment to collaborate with micro-entrepreneurs in every district of Nagaland, facilitating their access to broader markets. We firmly believe in the potential of our grassroots creators, manufacturers, and artisans as the true driving force behind this endeavor. Nagaland’s economic future is teeming with promise, and we eagerly anticipate its realization.”
Advisor of Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, who played a pivotal role in the project, expressed her long-standing aspiration, stating, “Dreams indeed come true. I have always yearned to proudly showcase ‘Made in Nagaland/NE’ in the capital with both pride and style.” Jakhalu was present during the inauguration and contributed significantly to the project’s success.