Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUN 23 (NPN): Nagaland State Co-operative Marketing and Consumers’ Federation Ltd. (MARCOFED) on Tuesday launched Nagabazaar, a digital retail and marketing platform aimed at connecting farmers, cooperatives, self-help groups, local entrepreneurs and consumers through an integrated online marketplace.
Speaking at a press conference at the MARCOFED office in Dimapur, chairman Dr. M. Chuba Ao said the platform was initially launched by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio on January 26, 2026, during Republic Day celebrations. However, its full-fledged operation was delayed as the federation focused on strengthening digital infrastructure and ensuring readiness for public use.
Dr. Ao said MARCOFED was established to procure products from cooperative societies and provide marketing support for their distribution and sale. However, challenges such as shortage of skilled manpower, increasing competition from private retail chains, inadequate infrastructure and weak networking systems led to the decline of several of its traditional operations.
Stating that the digital era required new approaches, he said the federation decided to revive its marketing activities through an online platform that would better connect producers and consumers across the state.
Managing director R. Bendang Ao said MARCOFED has been supporting cooperative societies, farmers and consumers across Nagaland. He said Nagabazaar would provide market linkages for farmers, cooperatives, self-help groups and local entrepreneurs and would facilitate the sale of agricultural produce, handicrafts and other locally manufactured products.
Describing the initiative as more than an e-commerce venture, he said Nagabazaar was conceived as a comprehensive marketing platform for indigenous products aimed at retaining consumer spending within the state. Board of director Bendangchuba said the federation envisages creating new opportunities through the cooperative movement by promoting local products and generating employment. He said the platform would initially cater to Dimapur and Chümoukedima before being expanded to other districts.
Officials also outlined plans to promote agriculture and allied sectors, including rubber cultivation and the production of cassava, ginger, turmeric and black pepper. They said MARCOFED aims to strengthen market linkages and create greater opportunities for farmers and local producers.
The Nagabazaar mobile application, available on both Android and iOS platforms, was also officially launched during the press conference.