The Liju Federation, Wozhuro Block, promoted under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM), held its 3rd Annual General Meeting on June 12 at the Public Ground, Wozhuro Range.
Addressing the gathering, Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies (ARCS) Obendangba lauded the federation members for their dedication and commitment towards strengthening Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the district. Speaking on behalf of the department, he encouraged SHGs to register under Cooperative Societies through the Rural Development Department to avail greater opportunities and long-term benefits.
Highlighting the growing potential of food processing enterprises in Nagaland, Obendangba said that while local entrepreneurs are performing well, there is a need to adopt proper pricing strategies and sustainable revenue models. He advised SHGs against overpricing their products and suggested introducing smaller and more affordable packaging options to cater to consumers’ purchasing capacities.
He also stressed the importance of improving the shelf life of SHG products through better food preservation techniques to enhance marketability and profitability. Further, he encouraged producers to develop products that appeal to consumers beyond Wokha and Nagaland, stating that adapting flavours and maintaining quality standards for wider markets would help expand business opportunities outside the state.
The programme witnessed the participation of federation members, village-level representatives, community leaders and officials associated with rural livelihood initiatives. During the meeting, members reviewed the federation’s activities and achievements over the past year and discussed future plans for strengthening livelihood opportunities, women’s empowerment and community-based enterprises.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Members also shared success stories highlighting the impact of NSRLM interventions. VF Mangasa VLO member, T Kimonglo Lotha said her SHG received a revolving fund of ₹17,000 under NSRLM, which enabled seven members to start a small business by purchasing daily household essentials at wholesale rates and selling them at retail prices. With consistent loan repayments, the group became eligible for larger loans.
She maintained that she now runs a well-established ration shop that supports her family’s livelihood, while other group members have also expanded their ventures and continue to repay loans on time. The group has additionally created an emergency fund to assist people in need.
Another success story was shared by Bank Sakhi Khomotchu of Oreno VLO, who said she borrowed money from her SHG to purchase a vehicle and begin a rubber plantation venture. Through the income generated, she gradually expanded her enterprise and has now acquired two plots of land for rubber cultivation.
As part of the programme, the Best Performing SHG Award was presented to Chanden SHG. The Best Performing VLO Award was awarded to Hayichan VLO, while the Best VF/MBK Award was given to Oreno Patton. The Best CSP Award was presented to Ebibeni Lotha, and the Best CRP-ep Award was awarded to Thungrhoni Yanthan.
