Hekani lauds MSMEs’ contribution to economy

DIMAPUR: Advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, lauded MSMEs across the state for their significant contribution to the economy, stating that the department has consistently promoted and supported enterprises to scale up through intensive interventions. Stressing the importance of UDYAM registration, she urged entrepreneurs to register, noting that many Nagas are engaged in businesses of passion with or without government support.
She was speaking at the World MSME Day 2026 celebration held at the Conference Hall, Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Kohima, on June 26, attended by entrepreneurs, policymakers, industry representatives and stakeholders. Highlighting the signing of an MoU with T Works under the theme “The Future Generation of MSME,” Hekani said the agreement sends a strong message that the government is committed to bringing the best expertise for Naga MSMEs. She called upon entrepreneurs to take pride in contributing to the local economy and creating jobs, while cautioning that despite advances in AI, human touch must remain central to entrepreneurship.
Deputy secretary, Industries & Commerce, Chonpenthung Ezung, while highlighting “Naturally Nagaland”, said MSMEs are the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing nearly 30% of GDP. He noted that over 2,000 enterprises in Nagaland have registered under UDYAM and emphasised the need to build brand visibility for indigenous products. He said the state aims to create a government supported brand framework to promote authentic natural and indigenous products, empowering entrepreneurs by mobilising MSME self help groups, artisans and cooperatives to transform local produce into recognised brands with sustainable market opportunities.
Chairman of NIDC, Kvulo Lorin, presented an overview of the RAMP scheme under the theme “Human Centered Entrepreneurship and an AI Driven Future Economic Environment.” He explained that the initiative resonates with the goal of developing infrastructure, expanding institutional capacities and scaling local businesses while keeping the human element at the core of growth. Launched in Nagaland on August 27, 2024, the RAMP scheme has benefited over 49,000 MSMEs, trained more than 35,000 entrepreneurs and conducted 882 workshops across districts, subdivisions and rural blocks. He added that women entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities and youth in remote districts have also been made accessible to these opportunities.
During the programme, an MoU was signed between T Works and the Government of Nagaland by CEO of T Works, Government of Telangana, Joginder Tanikella, and director of Industries & Commerce, P. Tokugha Sema, in the presence of advisor Hekani Jakhalu and officials from both sides.
Success stories from the RAMP programme were shared by Tsachola Sangtam of HillCraft Co and Neivi Khieya of Karmel Timber. The welcome address was delivered by Joint Director, Industries & Commerce, Cholzo Sophie, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Joint Director, Hojeto K. Suqhe.