The first-ever Nagaland International Coffee Seminar, organized by the Business Association of Nagas (BAN), concluded on a high note on October 2 after a two-day event that brought together coffee growers from every district of Nagaland, aggregators, processors, roasters, industry experts and various government departments.
The seminar, which aimed to address key challenges and opportunities within the coffee industry, was graced by Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), S. Supongmeren Jamir and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) Govt. of India, Mercy Epao. One of the key discussions during the event highlighted the gap between supply and demand.
More than 11 prominent speakers, including coffee industry experts and resource persons from South Africa, took the stage to share valuable insights into the coffee industry, both in Nagaland and globally.
On the final day, Superintendent Engineer of the Water Resource Department, Government of Nagaland, Sobu Angami, encouraged attendees to adopt effective water management practices and called for collaboration between the department and farmers to address these challenges.
Founder of Merakava Coffee from Somerset West, South Africa, Calvin Botes, shared his journey as an international coffee retailer and the vast opportunity and enormous international market for those passionate coffee enthusiasts with values of integrity and honesty.
Director, Daintyvil Enterprise LLP and a PhD scholar, Langnyei Angh, spoke on the economic impact of coffee cultivation, shared ground realities and future prospects. He also shared practical insights into coffee farming techniques, highlighting the importance of following proper farming protocols for socio-ecological sustainability.
Director of the Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Nagaland, Tokugha Achumi, addressed the challenges faced by coffee farmers in accessing modern technology and markets.
He introduced the upcoming Nagaland Trade Policy 2024, which aims to address these problems by promoting the “one district, one product” initiative and convergence of various government departments.
A hands-on workshop was conducted by proprietor of Coffee Lady, Zakietsono Jamir, where she demonstrated the art of manual brewing. Attendees had the opportunity to taste different manually brewed coffees and learn about the various equipment used for the process.
Retired Engineer-in-Chief of the Department of Power, Government of Nagaland, Er. Moa Air, discussed the necessity of consistent electricity supply for coffee processing.
He acknowledged the inadequate power supply in the state but urged the public to look at both sides of coin.
He called for a change in mindset regarding land acquisition and development, noting that while Article 371A protects their rights to land, but it should not come at the cost of development.
The event concluded by passing a resolution for formation of Nagaland Coffee Federation. Closing remarks by convenor of the Nagaland International Coffee Seminar 2024 and Standing Committee Member on Agri & Allied Sectors, Nukuzo Phesao.
He extended his gratitude to all the farmers, sponsors, resource persons from South Africa and everyone who were part of the event, acknowledging their contributions to the event’s success.