DIMAPUR: Advisor for Civil Administrative Works Division (CAWD), Kudecho Khamo, on Friday urged Nagas to take up businesses such as groceries, bakery and confectionery instead of relying on outsiders, stating that these ventures hold immense potential for local entrepreneurs.
He was speaking at the culmination programme of the 18 Chozuba A/C Baking and Confectionery Training Programme, organised in collaboration with the Women Resources Development (WRD), Government of Nagaland, and funded under the Local Area Development Fund (LADF) of 18 Chozuba A/C, held at the WRD Conference Hall, Meriema.
Khamo said Nagas must rediscover their potential and think beyond government employment, which many continue to view as the only livelihood option. He observed that this mindset often leads to frustration and prevents youth from exploring productive opportunities.
He maintained that local entrepreneurs are capable of meeting the demand for groceries, bakery products and confectionery items, and stressed that every successful business begins with modest investment, even from one’s kitchen. What is required, he said, is willingness, determination and courage to overcome challenges.
Encouraging trainees to aspire to become employers rather than job seekers, Khamo emphasised the importance of skill based education and developing a skilled workforce to seize opportunities. He pointed to the potential of the food processing industry in Nagaland, noting that the Chief Minister had allocated separate funds to MLAs for people’s upliftment.
He further advised aspiring entrepreneurs to build confidence with banks by maintaining proper project proposals, financial discipline and account records to help start and expand businesses.
In his opening remarks, Vilone Sakhrie, director, WRD, appreciated Khamo’s leadership and vision for women’s empowerment and urged trainees to make the best use of the skills acquired. Vekhozo Ringa, Headmaster of GHS Japan Riba, also spoke, stressing that entrepreneurship was essential to compete and survive in today’s world.
Reflections were shared by Aoakum Difusa, Baking and Confectionery Instructor, and trainee Dutalu Nienu. The programme was led by Asangla Sato, SSI, with invocation by Mudonuyi Veswu, Chaplain, NPF 18th Chozuba A/C. Vote of thanks was proposed by Rukuzo Khamo, general secretary, NPF COB.
Machineries were distributed to the trainees by Khamo, followed by a prayer of dedication by Rev. Vezopa Rhakho, pastor, CBCK.
