Governor of Nagaland Nand Kishore Yadav held a review meeting with officials of the Coffee Board of India and the Department of Land Resources, Government of Nagaland, at Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on September 1 to assess the progress, challenges and future prospects of coffee cultivation in the State.
The Coffee Board of India made a presentation on the status of coffee cultivation in the North Eastern Region and Nagaland. Discussions focused on strengthening coffee cultivation as a sustainable livelihood for farmers and exploring Nagaland’s potential in specialty and premium coffee production.
Coffee cultivation in Nagaland has grown steadily with support from the Coffee Board and the Department of Land Resources. Both Arabica and Robusta varieties are currently cultivated across several districts.
Yadav reviewed initiatives related to expansion, productivity, quality improvement, mechanisation, training and infrastructure. The Coffee Board has supported farmers through financial assistance, drying yards, mechanisation and capacity-building programmes.
The meeting also discussed challenges including transportation difficulties, poor road connectivity, limited processing facilities, climate-related concerns, small landholdings, shortage of skilled labour and limited access to international markets. Opportunities identified included specialty coffee, organic certification, coffee tourism, value addition, local roasting, café businesses, e-commerce and youth entrepreneurship.
The Governor stressed the need for a coordinated approach to strengthen the entire coffee value chain, from cultivation and farm practices to processing, branding and marketing. He emphasised improving farmers’ income through quality production and value addition while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and youth.
The meeting also noted the growth of coffee culture in Nagaland, with increasing numbers of roasters, cafés and entrepreneurs contributing to the local coffee ecosystem.
Yadav expressed confidence that sustained institutional support, improved infrastructure, scientific cultivation practices and stronger market linkages could help Nagaland emerge as an important producer of premium coffee in the country.
