As reported in this newspaper on Monday, two business investors from outside Mokokchung are investing here – which is actually quite surprising because neither of them is native to this town or district. MINISO and Lee Cooper are the two new businesses that the two investors are bringing to Mokokchung. MINISO is a Chinese low-cost retailer and variety store chain that specializes in household and consumer goods with over 5,500 stores in over 100 countries and regions. With more than 220 stores across India, MINISO is a fast-growing and successful business that is disrupting the traditional retail industry. Meanwhile, the oldest European denim brand, Lee Cooper, is a British-American clothing and footwear manufacturing company founded in 1908. Lee Cooper has a worldwide presence through its extensive network of over 4,000 outlets and 600 branded stores in over 100 countries across the world. In India, Lee Cooper has a presence in over 20 cities, with over 50 stores.
As opposed to the common refrain that there are no business opportunities in Mokokchung, it is interesting to note that there are investors who find it otherwise. Let us hope that both of the businesses will succeed in Mokokchung. Of course, this is not the first time that Nagas from outside Nagaland have invested in Mokokchung. Unfortunately, most of them had to close down and leave town for good. It is said that 90% of startups in India fail within the first five years. However, failure or success of the two new businesses that are coming to Mokokchung is not the issue here.
The point is, two non-natives bringing their money to invest here should inspire many more. There are many native people from this district doing successful businesses in Kohima, Dimapur and elsewhere but are reluctant to invest in Mokokchung. We need to find out the reasons why they are reluctant to come to Mokokchung. If non-Nagas are coming here from across India to do business, if Nagas from outside Mokokchung are exploring the opportunities here, then what exactly could be the reason that is stopping our own folks from investing in Mokokchung? On the flip side, why are most well to do members of our society looking forward to leaving Mokokchung? Could there be a psychological reason?
Your posts are always so helpful.