Nagaland has taken a significant step towards promoting organic farming and sustainable livelihoods with the opening of The Local Organic Farmer’s Mart at the Sereni Complex on Nyamo Lotha Road. The facility, which was formally opened on Tuesday, comes a few months after its initial inauguration in December last year. The launch is part of the state’s larger effort to position itself as a leading organic hub. Officials said the initiative is not just a marketplace, but a broader attempt to build a strong organic ecosystem by connecting farmers, institutions and global partners. Two important agreements form the foundation of this initiative. A Letter of Intent has been signed between the Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Nagaland and IFOAM Organics Asia. In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Cold Mountain Food Processing and Marketing Cooperative Society Ltd. and the same international organisation. These partnerships are expected to bring technical support, global exposure and better market access for local producers.
Along with the opening of the mart, the event also marked the launch of the Nagaland office of the Young Organic Global Network. This platform is aimed at encouraging young people to take part in organic farming and related activities. Officials believe that involving youth will help create new opportunities in agriculture and make the sector more sustainable in the long run.The programme saw participation from international experts representing seven countries, along with senior officials from the state government and other stakeholders. Among those present were Jennifer Chang, Executive Director of IFOAM Organics Asia, P. Tokugha Sema, Director of Industries & Commerce and State Nodal Officer for PMFME, and Dr. Akali, President of Nagaland Organic Konnect. Representatives from the State Bank of India also attended the event, showing financial support for the initiative. The opening ceremony concluded with the formal unveiling of the facility, marking its shift from a planned project to a working marketplace.
The Organic Farmer’s Mart is expected to help local farmers sell their produce directly to customers. This is likely to reduce dependence on middlemen and ensure better returns for farmers.Officials said the mart will play an important role in improving market connections, strengthening supply chains and promoting organic products from the state. It is also expected to support farmers by providing a stable platform to showcase and sell their produce. With this initiative, Nagaland is trying to build a system where farming, marketing and sustainability are linked together. Authorities believe that such efforts will not only improve incomes for farmers but also help the state gain recognition in the growing organic sector.
