Advisor of Land Resources, G. Ikuto Zhimomi on Wednesday inaugurated Café Hornbill at Kisama. In his inaugural address, Ikuto acknowledged the dynamic and visionary leadership of chief minister, Neiphiu Rio, for organizing the Hornbill Festival, which had become one of the most popular festivals not only at the state and national but also at international level.
He said Hornbill festival had evolved into more than just an extravagant cultural event and has become the biggest industry in the state, providing significant employment avenues and other benefits.
Dispelling the misconception that only farmers should be involved in cultivation, Ikuto emphasized the need for educated individuals to take the initiative and embrace modern farming practices. He also suggested taking up coffee entrepreneurship from modernized farming to marketing levels with seriousness as there were numerous opportunities available, and through coffee cultivation alone, more employment can be generated.
Advisor to chief minister and chairman, IDAN, Abu Metha, who also graced the event, expressed gratitude to architect Richard Belho and his team for accomplishing the completion of the coffee sector project in just 14 day.
He said in the past, the Hornbill Festival used to be a hub, but state government has elevated “Brand Nagaland” to greater heights, not only nationally but also on a global scale.
Citing of the recent visit of the officers from the Land Resources Department on their visit to Vietnam as part of the Northeast festival to explore partnerships and collaborations with Vietnam, Metha said Nagaland had been promoting the brand through Nagaland coffee, aspiring it to become one of the ambassadors of Nagaland and hoped that the coffee would gain recognition.
Metha also thanked the advisor, chief minister and the people for their support.
Earlier, the programme began with an invocation by CRC Phesama, pastor Zhawheto and vote of thanks by director, Land Resources, Albert Ngullie. The program was chaired by commissioner & secretary H&FW, V Kezo.