In a world increasingly driven by innovation and connectivity, the agricultural sector often struggles to adapt to modern challenges. Yet, in the hills of Nagaland, a group of 6 agriculture graduates is transforming the way local farmers access markets and resources. Known as Vill_age Agri and Allied Cooperative Societies Ltd., this cooperative has been registered under the Registrar of Cooperative Societies since September 22, 2021. With their flagship initiative, Khang Connect is bridging gaps and creating opportunities for cooperative farmers across the state.
Operating out of Zubza, the cooperative unites farmers from nine districts officially, and 12 unofficially, to enhance livelihoods, refine farming practices, and promote sustainable rural development.
The seeds of Vill_age were sown when these agriculture graduates recognized the need to support cooperative farmers struggling to market their produce effectively. Today, the team has a diverse assembly of six members from districts such as Mokokchung, Wokha, Dimapur, Mon, Kohima, and Longleng. Under the leadership of Chairman Thejaseto Terhüja, the cooperative aims to serve as a technical and marketing bridge for farmers, ensuring their products reach wider markets.
Khang Connect, launched during the 25th-anniversary Hornbill Festival, is a tribute to Vill_age’s mission to foster collaboration among cooperative farmers. The platform not only supports standardization, labelling, and grading but also provides technical assistance and guidance to ensure product quality.
This year’s Hornbill Festival marked Vill_age’s first promotional project under Khang Connect, giving the cooperative invaluable exposure. Operating a stall at the Kisama Heritage Village, they showcased an impressive array of local agricultural and processed goods, ranging from wild apple candies to king chili sauce. The stall became a hub for curious visitors, both local and international, leading to significant sales and numerous restocks.
The overwhelming response, including offers from international visitors, has encouraged the cooperative to explore opportunities in global markets. According to the chairman, while monetary support is vital, exposure events like the Hornbill Festival play an equally critical role in fostering growth.
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Vill_age’s product lineup reflects Nagaland’s rich biodiversity and culinary traditions. Some of the standout items include:
Wild Apple Candy
Gooseberry and Ginger Candy
Rice Puff (Roasted and Fried)
Silkworm Pickle
Sumac, Roselle, and Blackjack Teas
Nettle Plant Tea
King Chili Oil Extract and Sauce
Roasted Crickets
All these items are sourced from registered cooperative societies in villages like Mongsenyimti in Mokokchung, Khonoma in Kohima, and Chesezu in Phek. They emphasize sanitation, hygiene, and consistency in production, aiming to meet international standards.
Chairman Thejaseto shared “The journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Initially, Vill_age faced challenges marketing their products due to the lack of recognition for unregistered societies.” Registration under the Registrar of Cooperative Societies provided the legitimacy they needed. Today, they work closely with local entrepreneurs, ensuring products are clean, high-quality, and consistent.
Their process includes random sample testings to verify compliance with protocols. Entrepreneurs partnering with Vill_age benefit from technical and marketing support, allowing them to focus on production without worrying about packaging or distribution.
Future Plans and Vision
Vill_age is far from resting on its laurels. Their goal is to expand operations to cover all districts in Nagaland and eventually tap into international markets. The cooperative is keen on promoting collaborations with any society willing to produce quality goods under their directives.
Thejaseto said “Our emphasis on standardization and consistency is driven by the recognition that Nagaland’s agricultural products have immense potential but often lack the uniformity required to compete in larger markets. By introducing modern machinery and refining their processes, Vill_age is equipping farmers to meet these challenges head-on.”
Khang Connect is more than a marketing platform; it is a lifeline for cooperative farmers striving to make their mark. By bridging the gap between grassroots producers and the market, Vill_age is creating opportunities for rural communities to thrive.
The chairman aptly summed up their mission: “We are grateful for the overwhelming response at the Hornbill Festival. This exposure has not only helped us but also the societies and institutions we collaborate with. Our goal is to create a network where farmers can collectively succeed while preserving traditions and advancing towards a prosperous future for rural life.”
