Correspondent
Kohima, Nov 3 (NPN): Department of Food Processing, under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, organised the two-day fourth edition of Nagaland Food Connect at Old NST, Kohima, on November 3. Advisor for School Education and SCERT and Food Processing, Achumbemo Kikon, graced the event as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Kikon observed that many Naga businesses struggle to grow and compete because of the tendency to seek quick returns. He said that many entrepreneurs aspired to earn profits overnight without considering the long-term potential of their ventures.
Emphasising that business success does not come overnight, Kikon encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from successful business owners who began on a small scale and gradually expanded their enterprises. He stressed the importance of patience, consistency and long-term commitment, adding that Nagas should learn from past experiences and adopt a more sustainable approach to business development.
He also pointed out that increasing population pressure was placing greater strain on limited land resources, making it essential to utilise available resources more efficiently and adopt better livelihood practices.
Highlighting the importance of food safety and hygiene, Kikon said that just as individuals maintain personal cleanliness, equal attention should be given to ensuring that food is prepared and handled hygienically. According to him, maintaining high standards of food hygiene would not only safeguard public health but also help attract investors and customers.
He further noted that urban populations may not always have access to fresh food and underscored the need to strengthen food processing and preservation practices. He urged entrepreneurs to maintain a positive attitude towards customers, stating that every customer plays a vital role in the growth and sustainability of a business.
Dwelling on the six Ps of the food value chain – Production, Processing, Preservation, Packaging, Pricing and Patenting- Kikon encouraged farmers and entrepreneurs to focus on every stage of the process. He particularly stressed the importance of proper preservation to minimise wastage and ensure products remain fit for consumption and marketing.
On packaging, he said food products should be attractive, durable and compliant with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requirements to enhance marketability and strengthen consumer confidence.
Kikon also informed that the department was proposing to establish a food testing laboratory to ensure that locally produced food products meet national standards. He assured farmers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders of the department’s continued support and assistance.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Food Technologist Mhasiphizo Khezhie, while secretary to the Government of Nagaland, Department of Industries & Commerce and Food Processing, Kumar Ramnikant, delivered the welcome address. The vote of thanks was proposed by director of Food Processing, Y. Chingyak Konyak.