Nagaland Jacob Zhimomi calls for stronger cooperatives in national growth

The Nagaland Cooperative Conclave, under the theme “Cooperatives: A Catalyst for Economic Transformation,” was held at the NBCC Convention Hall in Kohima on November 18. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss the role of cooperatives in driving economic development, with prominent speakers emphasizing their potential to uplift local industries and support the national vision for a self-reliant India.
According to a DIPR report, minister for PHED and Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi, highlighted that both the Central and State governments are committed to fostering economic growth across communities nationwide. He emphasized that this growth can be accelerated by expanding the cooperative sector. Zhimomi also noted that while the cooperative sector has played a vital role in nation-building, its contributions have often gone unrecognized. He called for greater recognition of the sector’s impact on the economy, stressing the importance of the “vocal for local” movement as part of India’s broader “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” campaign.
Zhimomi pointed out that India’s economy has risen to become the fourth largest in the world and is poised to become the second largest by 2047, the centenary year of India’s independence. He urged all states to contribute to this growth, asserting that cooperatives will be central to achieving the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). He also encouraged the diversification of cooperative initiatives, particularly in the tourism sector, and called on young people to become more involved in this field.
APC Nagaland, V. Shashank Shekhar, reiterated the importance of cooperatives in driving economic change, noting the significant growth of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the state. He pointed out that the Government of India’s “Viksit Nagaland” initiative, part of the broader vision for a “Viksit Bharat,” is an opportunity for Nagaland to play a key role in the nation’s development. Shekhar emphasized that challenges faced by the agricultural sector, such as small landholdings, high logistics costs, and weak market linkages, can be tackled more effectively through cooperative efforts.
He urged stakeholders to adopt technology-driven solutions in agriculture, particularly in digital farming, to improve efficiency and transparency. Shekhar also highlighted initiatives like the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and the One Village One Cooperative Scheme, which aim to foster community engagement and youth participation.
The conclave also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NCEL and MARCOFED. Additionally, the NCDC Regional Award for Cooperative Excellence and Merit 2025 was presented to several cooperatives in various categories, recognizing outstanding contributions to the cooperative movement.
The best Primary Credit Coops (PACS) was awarded to Self-Support Women MPCS Ltd., Science College, Kohima and Atsitsa Large Area MPCS Ltd., Kiphire, Best Primary Cooperatives by Adianu Agri. & Allied Cooperative Society Ltd., B’khel Longsa Village, Mokokchung and Moutshou Agri. & Allied Cooperative Society Ltd., Chendang Village, Tuensang, Best Women Cooperatives by Mima Noh Weaving & Industrial Cooperative society ltd., Tuensang and Thenumin Kehou MPCS Ltd., Vidima Village, Chumoukedima, and Best FPO Cooperatives by Kade FPO Cooperative Society Ltd., Pfutsero, Phek and Tchutho Cooperative FPO Ltd., Meriyan Village, Wokha.