In a record breaking event, the opening of Big Bazaar in Dimapur witnessed a few thousand people who thronged the venue a few hours before the opening and later literally swamping the mall till late Saturday evening.
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, who was the special invitee, cut the ribbon and declared the Big Bazaar outlet open at a brief ceremony.
In his speech, Rio used the occasion to extend invitation to outside investors to do business in Nagaland and assured them of full protection and support under the present government.
He emphasised on the vital role of people and other stakeholders to create a conducive environment for peace and progress in order to inspire confidence among outside investors.
Rio reiterated that business could flourish only when social tranquillity exists to encourage more companies to invest in Nagaland market.
With emergence of private companies taking interest in Nagaland, Rio said it would not only help the business community to thrive but would also provide employment opportunities to unemployed youths.
“Nagaland can progress and be at par with other cities across the world, if peace and tranquillity is maintained,” he reiterated.
Describing Dimapur as the “commercial capital” of Nagaland , Rio expressed happiness that a trend was being set by big companies which have started to make their presence felt in the city.
Rio also lauded Nibu Nagi, one of Nagaland’s prominent businessman, entrepreneur and also owner of the property where Big Bazaar has set up its Dimapur outlet.
He said Nibu is an icon for Naga business aspirants who became successful because he developed skills through hard work and devotion.
Encouraging Nagas to venture into business, Rio said to thrive in this sector one has to be ethical, maintain integrity and be consistent in their efforts.
Later, the chief minister who was accompanied by host of ministers and advisors declared the retail store open for public by cutting the ribbon. He also inspected the entire store which consists of four levels.
The invocation was led by Kuda Village Baptist Church Pastor Rev. Miazielie Sakhrie and vote of thanks was by Zonal CEO, fbb and Big Bazaar East, Manish Agarwal.
Thousands of shoppers from across the state and neighbouring Assam, were seen lined up to enter the store.
Big Bazaar is one of India’s leading hypermarket chains by Future Group and the newly opened outlet in Dimapur, near Clock Tower Junction, is the fifth in the entire north east region after Guwahati, Jorhat, Agartala and Silchar.
Since morning, several hundred vehicles were parked in and around Clock Tower Junction or entering the circular road area and by afternoon, the entire road was totally clogged for hours.