In a significant stride toward empowering rural communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods, the District Mission Management Unit (DMMU) under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) inaugurated the Weekly Bazaar by Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the theme “From Agri-Nutri Garden to Market – An Initiative of SHG Federation” at Public Ground, Wokha, on June 3, 2025.
The bazaar was formally inaugurated by Mhathung Yanthan, MLA and Advisor to the Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, who graced the occasion as the special guest.
In his address, Yanthan lauded the collaborative efforts of the SHG members and the NSRLM team. “This bazaar is a promising step towards building self-reliant rural communities. By connecting gardens to markets, we not only ensure food security but also foster economic empowerment,” he remarked.
He acknowledged that while the concept of a local bazaar is not new, this initiative has the potential to evolve into a vibrant and sustainable marketplace in Wokha. He urged SHG members and federations to take pride in the platform, which empowers women and farmers by offering them direct access to consumers.
“I encourage all SHG members and federations to take pride in this noble initiative. It is a platform that empowers women and farmers by providing them with an opportunity to showcase and sell their products directly to the community,” he said.
Emphasising the significance of grassroots initiatives, Yanthan stated, “Every initiative must start somewhere, and today marks a meaningful beginning.” He also called for sustained public and stakeholder engagement to strengthen the local market ecosystem further.
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A representative from the State Mission Management Unit (SMMU) of NSRLM highlighted the vision behind the Weekly Bazaar, describing it as more than just a place for buying and selling. . “For too long, we have envisioned a dedicated space not merely to buy and sell, but to connect. A vibrant hub where fresh produce arrives straight from farms, and entrepreneurs showcase their talent,” the representative said.
He credited the leadership of the Project Director and the efforts of SHGs, Mahila Kisans, Federations, and community institutions for turning this vision into reality.
“Together, we are turning aspirations into reality,” he added.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining quality, fair pricing, and community ownership under the Womenfolk brand.
The event began with an invocation by Rev. Abemo Jungio, Pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church. Zuchibeni Odyuo, Convenor of the District Marketing Committee, chaired the programme and, in her opening remarks, highlighted the importance of women-led rural enterprises and sustainable local economies.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Daniel Ovung, District Functional Specialist (Non-Farm Livelihoods), who acknowledged the contributions of all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to launch the Weekly Bazaar.
The Weekly Bazaar will now be held every Tuesday from 6:00 AM at the Public Ground, Wokha, providing a regular platform for SHGs to market their produce and products directly to the community.
