The long-pending Common Facility Centre (CFC) Food Processing Unit at Yaongyimsen was raised as during the eighth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Thursday by Nuklutoshi, Member of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.

Raising the issue, Nuklutoshi recalled that the project was first conceptualized in 2009 when he was serving as Chairman of NIDC. He said that along with Late Bendang Longkumer, then General Manager from Yaongyimsen village, efforts were made to set up the project. However, due to shortage of funds, the proposal could not be implemented at that time.

He expressed appreciation to former MLA Imnatiba for later reviving and pursuing the project seriously, stating that the initiative was placed before the government twice to move it forward. He also acknowledged the concern shown by Advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani, towards the project.

Highlighting the importance of the CFC, Nuklutoshi said the facility is designed to manufacture, process and package agricultural produce. The unit will process fruits such as pomegranate, jackfruit, mango, pineapple, berries, papaya and grapes into juice, pulp and jam. It will also undertake vegetable processing, including mixed vegetable pickles, mango and lemon pickles, garlic paste, ready-to-eat salads and sauces. In addition, spices like black pepper, chilli powder, turmeric and cardamom will be processed and packaged.

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He stated that the project would not only benefit Yaongyimsen but also farmers and entrepreneurs from Mokokchung, Longleng, Mon, Tuensang, parts of Zunheboto, Wokha and surrounding areas.

The MLA emphasized that the CFC would create opportunities for educated unemployed youth and provide a market linkage platform for local farmers.

Referring to a previous RTI reply which indicated that the project could be completed within eight months, Nuklutoshi said the latest response states that it would take about one year for completion once funds are made available.

Describing the CFC as an important project for the constituency and the wider region, he urged the Chief Minister to intervene and ensure that the unit is completed and made operational at the earliest.