Nagaland’s Power & Parliamentary Affairs minister KG Kenye today distributed tools and equipments to Kezuwe and Lethse Van Dhan Vikas Kendra (VDVK) for Chizami, Kepolu VDVK for Mesulumi and VDVK Khomi under Pradhan Mantri Vandhan Yojana (PMVDY) at a function held at Chizami under Phek district.
The initiative was sponsored by TRIFED, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, and organised by Nagaland Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM).
According to an update received here, Kenye, stressed the need to strengthen the rural economy through sustainable agricultural practices and emphasised that while numerous awareness programs and trainings are frequently conducted indoors, real progress lies in engaging directly with the land.
He pointed out that Nagaland remains one of the world’s five major biodiversity hotspots, offering natural advantages that should be maximized rather than overlooked or overshadowed by external influences.
He highlighted the potential for the state to produce and export a wide range of local goods, provided the community adopts new perspectives and leverages modern tools and machinery.
Despite technological support, he maintained that manual effort and labor-intensive practices continue to be essential, especially in organic farming, fruits and vegetables, handlooms, handicrafts, and other local produce.
The minister also noted that the honey sector holds significant untapped potential and can be developed as a strong economic asset if the entire value chain—from production and processing to packaging and export – is properly organized and streamlined.
The minister reiterated that the rural economy forms the backbone of Naga society and needs continuous strengthening to ensure long-term sustainability, especially as rapidly changing trends and high-profile activities offer limited long-term reliability.
He encouraged local entrepreneurs to take proactive steps in contributing to the state’s economic growth.
Furthermore, Kenye conveyed appreciation to Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio and NBHM team for prioritising honey-based initiatives and fostering opportunities for rural development.
Dr Pritpal Kaur, Superintendent of Police Phek also delivered short speech and encouraged the people to go for organic farming. She also called upon the Self Help Groups (SHGs) to use technology to enhance the production.
Earlier, Er. Khuvoyi Vese, Deputy Team Leader, NBHM chaired the program while GB Kezutsutso Wezah delivered welcome address. Dezele Thopi spoke on behalf of the Vandhan.
