A fresh health movement is taking root in Nagaland, and it begins with a personal story of healing and a passion for nutrition.

Meet Lima Longkumer, a 28-year-old entrepreneur and founder of Chia Nagaland, a wellness focused brand launched on August 10, 2024 that is redefining how the region experiences health food. A Bachelors in Business Administration student who spent most of his academic years in Bangalore, Lima returned to Nagaland post-COVID period, uncertain of what lay ahead. In his words, “Chia became the answer.”

Having battled chronic health conditions for years, Lima’s personal recovery journey led him to the power of clean, functional foods, especially the humble chia seed, which inspired the name of his brand.

Launched with the goal of promoting gut health, clean nutrition, and local sourcing, Chia Nagaland offers a unique menu that blends modern wellness trends with indigenous ingredients.

Cold-Pressed Juices: Medziphema Pineapple – Sourced from the famed sweet pineapples of Medziphema, Mokokchung Cucumber – Refreshing and hydrating and Malta Orange – Naturally zesty and immune-boosting.

Health Blends: Tropic Kale – A fusion of local pineapple and nutrient-dense kale, Green Detox – Designed to cleanse and energize, Holy Water – A calming Ayurvedic formula featuring tulsi and Tender Coconut Slushie – Hydration meets flavor in this tropical favorite

Lemonades: Sumac Lemonade – A tangy antioxidant boost, Charcoal Lemonade – Detoxifying and functional and Collagen Lemonade – Blended with collagen protein for skin health.

Other Specials: Açaí Bowls – Packed with antioxidants and customizable toppings, Chia Puddings – High in omega-3, fiber, and naturally sweet and Mango Sticky Rice – A tropical dessert made from seasonal produce.

Chia is conveniently located at the midpoint of Ao Tajen Road, Dimapur, near Metro Hospital in the heart of Dimapur city.

Nagaland Tribune got to sit with this vibrant young entrepreneur for an exclusive interview where he candidly shared the journey of Chia.

NT: What inspired you to start Chia in Dimapur?

Lima: The idea came from a very personal place. I had chronic gastritis and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) for most of my life. It made me sensitive to most foods, and my journey toward wellness started with experimenting with gut-friendly recipes. One of the only things that helped me recover was chia seeds, and that’s where the name and the idea began.

NT: Why the name “Chia”? Is there a story behind it?

Lima: Chia seeds were among the first foods I could consume during my recovery. They gave me strength when nothing else did. So, the name Chia represents healing, resilience, and a deeply personal chapter of my life.

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NT: What is the vision behind Chia’s offerings?

Lima: At Chia, our focus is on both health and taste. Everything on our menu- from slushies to health blends- is created with a clear function. For instance, we offer blends for gut health, energy boosts, blood sugar balance, and inflammation. We do not use sugar, preservatives, or artificial colors.

NT: What are some key health benefits of Chia products?

Lima: One of our most popular drinks, Protein Knockout, contains 45 grams of protein per cup and uses high-quality whey, homemade yogurt, and milk (with vegan options). We also have unique products like Sea Buckthorn Lemonade, packed with Omega 3, 7, and 9 excellent for people with inflammation and gout-like symptoms.

NT: How do you approach sourcing your fruits and ingredients?

Lima: We believe in supporting local farmers. We source pineapples from Medziphema, sumac from Longleng, and passion fruit from nearby villages. For exotic ingredients that can’t be grown locally, we import them responsibly.

NT: What do you want customers to feel when they walk into Chia?

Lima: I want people to feel that they’re not just buying a drink, they’re investing in their health. From hygiene to service to ingredients, everything at Chia reflects that commitment.

NT: What were some challenges you faced in building your business?

Lima: This is my first business, and there was nothing like this in Nagaland. I started with pop-ups at local events. Managing staff, quality control, and operations were all new to me. But my passion for health helped me overcome those hurdles.

NT: Are there any misconceptions people have about healthy drinks or wellness cafes that you wish to clear up?

Lima: Absolutely. Many people think healthy means tasteless, but at Chia, we’ve proven that good health can taste amazing. Our returning customers are proof.

NT: What’s your personal favorite item on the menu?

Lima: I love our Blueberry Yogurt. It’s packed with real blueberries, probiotics from yogurt, and cacao for blood circulation. It’s both nutritious and delicious.

NT: Do you plan to open more outlets?

Lima: Yes. We’re planning to open more outlets in Dimapur and eventually in other parts of Nagaland. But our focus is maintaining quality across every location.

NT: Any collaborations on the horizon?

Lima: Not currently, but we are open to collaborations with fitness brands and wellness communities.

NT: What values do Chia stand for?

Lima: Our core value is uncompromised quality. Our pricing reflects the premium ingredients we use. We also aim to keep our products accessible and affordable.

NT: Who’s behind the scenes at Chia?

Lima: We have a small but passionate team of four, all from my own village. I’ve trained each of them personally. One key member prepares ingredients at home, from cutting coconuts to extracting coconut water. We also have a strategic partner helping with backend operations.

NT: How involved are you in daily operations?

Lima: I’m very hands-on, I’ve trained everyone myself and sometimes work at the front desk. But I’m also trying to build a self-sustaining system so I can focus on brand growth and new product development.

NT: Do you think a government job is the only path to a stable life?

Lima: That’s a big misconception. I was also pushed toward that path. But if you’re passionate and skilled at something, you can turn it into a sustainable career, even if it’s not conventional.

NT: As an entrepreneur what is the one lesson you’ve learned the hard way?

Lima: Don’t waste time doing things you’re not passionate about. Do what you love and what you’re good at. That’s when doors begin to open.

NT: Finally, what advice do you have for young people in Nagaland who want to start their own business?

Lima: Follow your passion. Don’t just chase money. Build your skills, take that first step, even if it’s small and don’t be afraid to fail. It’s all part of the journey.

NT: Thank you, Lima, for sharing your journey with such honesty and inspiration.

Lima: Thank you. I hope Chia continues to be a place where wellness meets purpose for everyone.