A representation has been submitted seeking the creation of a separate Directorate of Food Processing Industries in Nagaland, citing the state’s agricultural potential and the need for focused institutional support to develop value addition and agro-based industries.
The submission, addressed to the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, highlighted Nagaland’s predominantly agrarian economy, noting that around 70 per cent of the population depends on agriculture for livelihood. It stated that despite being a resource-rich state with strong biodiversity and favorable agro-climatic conditions, the food processing sector remains largely underdeveloped.
Nagaland was described in the representation as a biodiversity-rich region with significant potential for agro-horti development, supported by fertile soil, adequate rainfall and favorable climatic conditions.
It added that the state also has a wide range of agricultural and horticultural produce with potential for processing and value addition.
The document listed key products available in the state, including fruits such as pineapple, banana, jackfruit, passion fruit and orange; spices like turmeric; oilseeds such as mustard, sesame and soybean; plantation crops including areca nut, tea, coffee and cashew; and other products such as honey, milk and pork.
It further outlined possible value-added products such as fruit pulps, jams, ginger-based products, dehydrated fruits, frozen vegetables, and ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook items, stating that these could significantly boost rural incomes and entrepreneurship.
The representation argued that establishing a dedicated Directorate would help strengthen infrastructure such as cold storage facilities, food testing laboratories, and processing units, while also attracting investment and supporting MSMEs and start-ups in the sector.
At present, food processing activities in Nagaland are handled under the Directorate of Industries and Commerce.
The submission urged the Government of Nagaland to consider setting up a dedicated Directorate to ensure focused policy implementation, better coordination with central schemes, and improved support for farmers and entrepreneurs.
The appeal was submitted by S Richard Humtsoe, National Secretary of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas).
In a separate note addressed to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio by Chirag Paswan, Minister of Food Processing Industries, similar concerns were raised, stating that India’s food diversity offers significant scope for value addition and export-oriented growth, but requires stronger institutional mechanisms at the state level.
The note suggested that a dedicated ministry or directorate would help streamline policy implementation, develop infrastructure, and improve coordination between central and state agencies, thereby strengthening the food processing ecosystem in Nagaland.
It added that such an initiative would contribute to farmer income growth, employment generation, and broader economic development aligned with national objectives.
Meanwhile, according to reports, the Government of Nagaland has proposed establishing a Directorate of Food Processing Industries to strengthen food processing, value addition, quality assurance and investment promotion in the state.
The move follows a call by Chirag Paswan, Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, for the establishment of an independent food processing ministry at the state level, citing the sector’s potential to contribute significantly to Nagaland’s economic growth.
The proposal envisages the creation of 214 posts, a state food testing laboratory and food processing cells in all 17 districts. The initiative is expected to support 5,000 food processing units, generate 10,000 jobs, reduce post-harvest losses by 25 per cent and attract Rs 500 crore in private investment within five years. The proposed directorate will function independently under the Department of Industries and Commerce.
