Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUL 13 (NPN): An Exclusive MSME Outreach Programme, organised by the Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) in collaboration with Canara Bank and Rhaeven Capital, was held at Hotel Vivor, Kohima, on Monday.
Delivering the keynote address, Santanu Saha, AGM, Circle Office Guwahati, Canara Bank, highlighted the crucial role of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector in India’s economy. He noted that the sector contributes over 30% to GDP, accounts for more than 35% of manufacturing output, and nearly 50% of India’s exports.
While acknowledging the sector as a major driver of the national economy, he observed that the region continues to lag behind, presenting significant untapped opportunities.
He assured that Canara Bank remains committed to supporting MSME growth.
Earlier, Khrietuo Yhome, CEO of Rhaeven Capital, in his welcome address, said Nagaland’s economy remains heavily dependent on central funds and generates little revenue of its own. He pointed out that the economy is largely driven by government salaries rather than productive activity, which has contributed to unemployment, corruption, nepotism and a culture of dependence.
Describing such a model as unsustainable, Yhome stressed that entrepreneurship offers the most viable solution.
He emphasised that entrepreneurship is not merely about starting businesses but about solving problems, generating wealth and creating employment. He urged people to look beyond government jobs and embrace enterprise, encouraging them to become employers instead of employees, producers instead of consumers, and innovators instead of job seekers.
“If we genuinely aspire to build a resilient, self reliant and prosperous Nagaland, entrepreneurship is not just an option-it is the way forward,” he said.
The programme also featured presentations by the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Department of Labour, Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Department of Industries and Commerce, Taxes Department, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC), Chartered Accountant Saurav Agarwal, Canara Bank, and KCCI.
The event began with an invocation by Robin Temsu of City Church.