Three entrepreneurial ventures, supported and funded by FOCUS-IFAD project under the activity, “Innovation Fund” was inaugurated in Zunheboto district at three different locations- Old Town colony, Zunheboto, Sheyipu village and Sapotimi village on December 18 and 20, 2024.
The inaugural programme was graced by SDO (civil) Zunheboto, Sukhalu Chishi, as chief guest. Delivering speech in the programme, he applauded the entrepreneurs for their approach in availing the benefits provided by the project. He emphasized that, existence of such establishments was a remarkable achievement and should function for upscaling the productions and to boost local economy of the farmers in the district.
The innovation fund has marked a significant milestone in the journey of Dr. Hutoka Y Jakha (Tissue Culture cum Mushroom Spawning Laboratory) and Hika Zhimo (Nagaland Spices), who have launched their innovative ideas into materialistic existence.
District Project Officer, DMU-Zunheboto, Thangpong, highlighted on how the project selected the innovative ideas of Nagaland Spices and Tissue Culture cum Mushroom Spawning Laboratory. He also stressed on the importance on improvising packaging, quality, promotion and competitive prices as those were the key factors of sustaining in the competitive market. Meanwhile, the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the project and shared their visions for the business and contribution to local economy.
The events held at Old Town colony, Zunheboto and Sheyipu village concluded with a tour of the facility, showcasing the machineries, infrastructures and demonstrations on the usage of various equipments.
Meanwhile, at a separate event, a Market Access Facility and aggregation centre at Sapotimi village was inaugurated by District Project officer, FOCUS-IFAD, Thangpong on December 20.
In his inaugural address, Thangpong lauded the women folks for their striving efforts that contributed in achieving a commendable milestone. He encouraged the villagers to make full utilization of both movable and non-movable assets acquired to serve the purpose and fulfill the objectives of Market Access Facility and Aggregation Center. This was stated in a press release issued by media cell, FOCUS-IFAD.