Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on May 18, 2026, virtually launched the “Coffees of Nagaland” Mission in the presence of Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Minister T. R. Zeliang, Advisor for Land Resources G. Ikuto Zhimomi, and other officials at New Delhi.
Launching the “Cluster-Based Coffee Value Chain Development in Nagaland” project, Scindia described the initiative as the beginning of a transformative journey aimed at positioning coffee as Nagaland’s unique strength while strengthening rural livelihoods.
He stated that the Ministry of DoNER recognises the Northeast as a hub of unique produce and entrepreneurial potential, adding that Nagaland’s agro-climatic conditions are highly suitable for premium Arabica and Robusta coffee. He said the project seeks to improve the position of tribal farmers in the value chain by creating better earning opportunities and market access.
With an investment of ₹49.48 crore, the project adopts a cluster-based approach with pilot sites at Tuophema in Kohima district for Arabica coffee and Ghotovi in Niuland district for Robusta coffee. The project includes hi-tech nurseries, expansion of 400 hectares of cultivation with soil conservation measures, washing stations, roasting and grinding units, and farm-stay tourism experiences.
Scindia said the initiative aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat by promoting sustainable agroforestry, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. He added that branding under the umbrella title “Coffees of Nagaland – Taste of Eminence” along with digital marketing and e-commerce initiatives would help Nagaland coffee reach premium national and international markets.
Addressing the programme, Chief Minister Rio said Nagaland has witnessed significant growth in coffee cultivation since its revival in 2014–15, with production increasing from 21 metric tonnes in 2021–22 to nearly 73 metric tonnes in 2024–25. He stated that the state aims to expand cultivation to 50,000 hectares by 2047 under the Viksit Nagaland vision.
Rio said the project would establish modern infrastructure, strengthen branding and marketing, and promote experiential coffee tourism through farm stays, creating additional income opportunities for youth and entrepreneurs while showcasing Nagaland’s cultural heritage.
He further stated that the initiative would provide dignified livelihoods, reduce dependence on jhum cultivation, conserve forests, and protect the fragile hill ecology. Assuring full administrative and political support for effective implementation, Rio urged farmers to adopt new technologies and become ambassadors of Nagaland coffee.
During the launching programme at Niuland, short speeches were delivered by Khevito Sumi and Catherine Zhimomi on behalf of Ghotovi Coffee farmers, while Vivito Yeptho, proprietor of Nagaland Coffee, spoke on behalf of entrepreneurs.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Nagaland Chief Secretary Nagaland, Sentiyanger Imchen IAS.
(Vihepu, IA Niuland)
