The first-ever Nagaland Cooperative Conclave 2025 was inaugurated yesterday in Kohima, marking a key milestone in efforts to strengthen and modernise the cooperative sector in the state. The three-day event, organised to celebrate the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, is being held under the theme “Cooperatives – A Catalyst for Economic Transformation.”
Inaugurating the conclave, Nagaland Cooperation Minister Jacob Zhimomi called for diversification within the cooperative sector and urged stakeholders to move beyond traditional areas by tapping new opportunities, especially in tourism. He emphasised the need for greater youth participation to ensure long-term sustainability and highlighted digital innovation as a driving force for expanding market access and improving operational efficiency.
A major feature of the opening ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) and MARCOFED, aimed at enhancing export potential, strengthening market linkages, and empowering cooperative-based producers across Nagaland.
During the event, the NCDC Regional Awards for Cooperative Excellence and Merit 2025, presented by the National Cooperative Development Corporation, Ministry of Cooperation, were awarded to 10 cooperative societies across five categories. The Minister also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing a wide range of local products such as fruits, vegetables, handicrafts, processed foods, and traditional pottery.
The conclave will continue with seminars, panel discussions, and B2B (Business-to-Business) sessions designed to promote knowledge exchange, foster collaboration, and create new opportunities for cooperative societies, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
