The Nagaland Cooperative Conclave concluded on a determined and forward-looking note, outlining a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen the State’s cooperative movement and expand opportunities for farmers, artisans, youth and rural communities. The final-day sessions, held at the NBCC Convention Hall in Kohima, focused on youth engagement, entrepreneurship and long-term strategies to revitalise the sector, according to a DIPR report. At the valedictory session, Orenthung Lotha, commissioner and secretary of Cooperation and Information & Public Relations, stressed the increasing relevance of cooperatives in building resilient communities and advancing inclusive economic growth. He said the three-day gathering created space for meaningful discussions, allowing participants to exchange ideas and reaffirm the role of cooperatives as key drivers of collective progress. Lotha noted that the deliberations highlighted how community-led enterprises can reshape markets, improve livelihoods and contribute to Nagaland’s broader development. He expressed confidence that the partnerships formed during the conclave would support a diverse range of stakeholders—from farmers and artisans to young entrepreneurs and rural groups.
Joint registrar of cooperative societies, Bokato Hesso, presented a detailed overview of the discussions and laid out the way forward for the sector. He said the cooperative movement in Nagaland has reached a critical phase and requires stronger coordination, inclusive planning and a sustained long-term vision. Identifying priority areas, Hesso emphasised the need to expand opportunities in agriculture and allied sectors, strengthen cooperation between departments and address existing policy gaps, information disparities and weak institutional structures. He also underscored the importance of improving credit access, promoting financial literacy and involving young people in emerging fields such as climate-resilient and digital agriculture. Hesso further called for harmonised policies, appointment of dedicated nodal officers and consistent inter-departmental commitment to help cooperatives emerge as engines of equitable and sustainable growth.
The afternoon session saw the presentation of the Best Exhibitor Awards in three categories. In Food and Processing, Cold Mountain Food Processing and Marketing C.S. Ltd. from Burma Camp, Dimapur, received the honour. In Weaving, Handicrafts and Artisans, the award went to United Shemong Farming C.S. Ltd. of Pongo Village, Longleng. In Agri and Allied Services, Verhiyinumi Khel Agri & Allied C.S. Ltd. from Yoruba Village in Phek district was recognised for its contributions.Earlier in the day, Alangla Tonger, additional RCS, delivered the opening remarks, followed by a series of sessions that explored the role of youth in the cooperative sector, entrepreneurship and employment generation. These sessions were led by Ritesh Dey of NCUI New Delhi and architect Richard Belho of Zynorique Initiatives. Post-lunch discussions featured insights from Dr. Aotoshi, who presented a cooperative vision for Nagaland, along with contributions from experts across agriculture and allied departments. Delegates also shared feedback and offered recommendations to strengthen the ecosystem.
