YouthNet inaugurated its third Made in Nagaland (MIN) Centre at 5th Mile, Chümoukedima on Tuesday, September 8, aiming to expand market access for Naga entrepreneurs and promote locally produced goods.

The centre was inaugurated by Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav in the presence of Industries and Commerce Advisor Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha, Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Advisor Zhaleo Rio and other legislators, officials, entrepreneurs and stakeholders.

The centre currently showcases more than 450 products from 95 entrepreneurs across Nagaland. The products include traditional shawls and mekhelas, apparel, handicrafts, jewellery, food products, soaps, footwear and other locally made goods, along with a dedicated souvenir section.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Yadav highlighted Nagaland’s traditional knowledge, indigenous crafts, farming practices and community values as important expressions of the state’s identity. He noted that despite the availability of local talent and products, many artisans, farmers and entrepreneurs continue to face challenges in accessing wider markets.

The Governor stressed the need to strengthen entrepreneurs with skills in marketing, technology, branding, packaging, digital marketing and market intelligence, while maintaining quality, certification, consistency and reliable supply.

He said initiatives such as Made in Nagaland could help bridge the gap between local producers and consumers and create greater opportunities for employment and livelihoods. He expressed hope that MIN would grow into a broader movement for entrepreneurship and economic growth in the state.

Industries and Commerce Advisor Hekani Jakhalu said Made in Nagaland was created to provide entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their products and access opportunities for business growth. She highlighted the need for improved access to finance, branding, marketing, technology and other business support.

Abu Metha congratulated YouthNet on the launch and highlighted its work in empowering young people and entrepreneurs. He said YouthNet had impacted more than 50,000 people through initiatives aimed at making entrepreneurs and young people market-ready and job-ready.

YouthNet Director Nuneseno Chase said Made in Nagaland was working to create wider market opportunities for local entrepreneurs. In partnership with the Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation, the initiative is also promoting Naga products through the Nagaland Emporium in New Delhi.

Products under the initiative are also being made available through digital marketplaces including Amazon, Flipkart and ONDC.

The Chümoukedima centre is now open to visitors and offers products from entrepreneurs and enterprises across Nagaland.