The launching of Coffee Roasting Machines program, funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC) was held on February 16, informed DIPR. The event took place at the Directorate of Land Resources in Kohima where G. Ikuto Zhimomi, Advisor of Land Resources, Nagaland, graced the event.

Expressing his delight, Zhimomi highlighted the resurgence of coffee farming in Nagaland, dating back to its introduction in the 1970s. He commended the efforts to revive the industry, which had faced discontinuation in the late 1990s but was reintroduced by the Department of Land Resources in 2014. This revival, coupled with proper information dissemination and departmental interest, has positioned Nagaland as a frontrunner in coffee production within the North Eastern region.

Zhimomi emphasized Nagaland’s potential as a leading coffee producer, citing its conducive natural climate and the crop’s longevity, which spans centuries. He proposed coffee farming as a viable alternative to traditional jhum cultivation, drawing parallels with coffee giants like Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia.

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Acknowledging the pivotal role of Commissioner Secretary Land Resources in supporting farmers, Zhimomi assured assistance to areca nut, coffee, and rubber farmers in securing fair prices and avoiding exploitation by intermediaries. He underscored the commitment of Chief Minister Rio towards farmers’ welfare and envisioned a promising future for them.

During the ceremony, Coffee Roasting Machines were distributed to beneficiaries:

Zakietsono Jamir – Dimapur; R. Lichanbemo Humtsoe – Kohima; Tiakum Kichu – Mokokchung; Nsungthung V. Ngullie – Kohima; Thejanuo Kets – Kohima; Boholi Chishi – Dimapur, and Kekhriengulie – Kohima.

Earlier in the event, Albert Ngullie, Director of Land Resources, welcomed attendees and highlighted the progress of coffee farming in the state. He expressed gratitude to the Coffee Board of India and NEC for their collaborative efforts in supporting Nagaland’s coffee farmers.