Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio highlighted the growing global recognition of Nagaland coffee and its remarkable journey from early setbacks to international acclaim. Speaking at the launch of the YES Coffee corner in Kohima on Thursday, Rio reflected on the coffee’s rise from failure to success, emphasizing the key role local farmers and entrepreneurs played in establishing it as a unique and sought-after brand.
Rio recounted how Nagaland coffee first won a silver medal at an international competition, followed by a gold medal at a later event. This recognition inspired local farmers to keep cultivating coffee, revitalizing the industry with renewed passion and commitment.
“Years ago, coffee in Nagaland failed not because of the farmers, but because the Coffee Board did not provide proper guidance and support,” Rio explained. “Farmers gave up, and we thought we had failed as Nagas, but it wasn’t our fault.”
The Chief Minister credited the revival of coffee cultivation to the hard work of dedicated farmers and entrepreneurs, particularly Vibeilietuo, whose efforts helped build Nagaland coffee into a globally recognized product admired by both enthusiasts and experts.
Rio also praised the unique taste and aroma of Nagaland coffee, which has now gained both national and international acclaim.
Reflecting on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rio noted how the lockdowns led many people to return to their villages and take up new agricultural activities, including gardening, horticulture, and coffee farming. “Today, we are seeing the results of those efforts,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of proper training for farmers and entrepreneurs in areas such as harvesting, grading, and brewing coffee. While acknowledging that Nagas often seek quick results, Rio pointed out that coffee cultivation requires patience and skill.
“By becoming skilled, we can ensure better harvests and higher profits,” Rio said, highlighting that coffee is one of the highest-valued commodities in the global market.
He encouraged the people of Nagaland to see coffee farming as a viable economic opportunity and stressed the importance of self-reliance. He urged farmers to take ownership of their ventures and invest in training, rather than relying on others without proper knowledge, which could lead to losses.
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