DIMAPUR: In a major boost to entrepreneurial efforts of SHG women, the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) has been awarded Best Performing State in the “Small State Category” for effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India.
According to a press release, the trophy was presented by Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Chirag Paswan, during the PMFME Conclave held at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, on August 25. In Nagaland, under the scheme, seed capital has so far been disbursed to 1,637 food processing enterprises, benefiting 5,520 SHGs and individual members, with a total amount of Rs. 12.99 crore availed by NSRLM SHG members. Lentinaro Imchen, State Programme Manager, NSRLM, received the award on behalf of the Mission.
The national recognition was credited to the collective dedication and teamwork of the State Mission, reflecting the continued efforts of SHG women in strengthening food processing enterprises, empowering rural communities and creating sustainable grassroots livelihood opportunities across Nagaland.
Meanwhile, the Department of Food Processing, Government of Nagaland, was conferred Second Runner Up Award for Best Performing State in the Small State Category during the PMFME Conclave 2026, organised by MoFPI at New Delhi on August 24–25. The award was received on behalf of the State by officials from the Department and SPMU led by Deputy Director, Food Processing, Zakielatuo Yiese.
Adding to the achievement, Jessy Jurry, Functional Manager, DIC Kohima, received the Best Performing District Nodal Officer (DNO) Award, while Rukuveto Lohe, District Resource Person (DRP), Phek District, was recognised as the Best Performing DRP in the State.
The multiple recognitions reflect the collective efforts of the Department of Food Processing, Department of Industries & Commerce, SPMU, NSRLM, DAY NULM, DNOs, DRPs, banking fraternity and other stakeholders working together to support entrepreneurs and strengthen Nagaland’s micro food processing sector.
The PMFME Conclave brought together stakeholders from across the country through discussions, diverse food products and inspiring stories of entrepreneurship, celebrating the creativity and determination of India’s micro food processing enterprises. For Nagaland, the recognition marks a proud moment and encouragement to continue supporting local entrepreneurs, promoting local food products and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities through food processing.