The final-day sessions of the Nagaland Cooperative Conclave focused on youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and strengthening the state’s cooperative sector. The Programme was held on 20th November 2025 at NBCC Convention Hall, Kohima.
Commissioner & Secretary, Cooperation and Information & Public Relations, Orenthung Lotha, NCS, mentioned the growing importance of cooperatives in strengthening community resilience and driving inclusive economic growth as the Nagaland Cooperative Conclave drew to a close.
Speaking at the valedictory session, he noted that the three-day conclave created a space for participants to share ideas, experiences, and aspirations that reaffirm the potential of cooperatives beyond their role as institutions. He emphasised that the discussions and activities had demonstrated how collective effort can help communities move markets, improve livelihoods, and contribute to the economic future of both Nagaland and the wider region.
Reflecting on the conclave’s theme, Cooperatives – a catalyst for economic transformation, Lotha said the insights and commitments shared over the past days strengthened the belief that the cooperative movement in Nagaland is poised to reach new heights. He expressed confidence that the partnerships formed during the event would continue to support farmers, artisans, entrepreneurs, youth, and communities across the state.
He also conveyed appreciation to all organisers, participants, and collaborators for their dedication and contribution in shaping a shared vision for the cooperative sector.
Bokato Hesso, Joint Registrar of Cooperative Societies, presented an overview of the deliberations held over the past three days and outlined the sector’s way forward. He noted that the cooperative movement in Nagaland is at a crucial turning point and needs stronger coordination, inclusive planning, and long-term strategies.
Hesso highlighted key areas for progress, including expanding opportunities in agriculture and allied sectors, strengthening cross-departmental collaboration, and addressing bottlenecks such as departmental silos, policy gaps, information asymmetry, and weak institutional structures. He stressed the need for better credit access, financial literacy, and improved utilisation of resources, along with greater involvement of youth in emerging areas like climate-resilient farming and digital agriculture.
He called for harmonised policies, appointment of nodal officers for better convergence, and a shared commitment across departments to build cooperatives as catalysts of sustainable and equitable growth for Nagaland.
Best Exhibitor Award at the valedictory session, went to:
1. Food and Processing category: Cold Mountain Food Processing and Marketing C.S Ltd. Burma Camp, Dimapur
2. Weaving Handcrafts and Artisans category: United Shemong Farming C.S Ltd, Pongo Village, Longleng
3. Agri and Allied Category: Verhiyinumi Khel Agri& Allied C. S Ltd. Yoruba Village, Phek.
On the 3rd day of the Conclave, the opening remarks in the first session were delivered by Alangla Tonger, Addl. RCS, followed by key sessions on the Role of Youth in the Cooperative Movement by Ritesh Dey, NCUI New Delhi, and Entrepreneurship and Employment through Cooperatives by Ar. Richard Belho of Zynorique Initiatives.
Post-lunch discussions included Dr. Aotoshi speaking on a Cooperative Vision for Nagaland, and experts from the Agriculture and Allied Departments highlighting opportunities in departmental and banking sectors. Delegates also shared feedback and recommendations for the way forward.
The event marked the successful closure of the multi-day conclave held under the theme “Cooperatives – A Catalyst for Economic Transformation.”
(Takumpula, IA)
