Advisor Kudecho Khamo urged Nagas to embrace entrepreneurship and reduce dependence on outsiders, stressing local businesses, skill development and food processing.
KOHIMA — Advisor for CAWD Kudecho Khamo on Friday called upon Nagas to venture into businesses such as grocery, bakery and confectionery instead of depending on outsiders for products and services that can be produced locally.
He was speaking at the culmination programme of the Baking and Confectionery Training Programme for 18 Chozuba Assembly Constituency, organised in collaboration with the Women Resource Development (WRD), Government of Nagaland, at the WRD conference hall, Meriema. The programme was funded under the Local Area Development Fund (LADF) of 18 Chozuba A/C.
Khamo said that while the political aspiration for self-determination remained important, excessive focus on it had at times overshadowed the potential of the people in other areas.
He urged Nagas to continue pursuing their political aspirations while also rediscovering their potential and exploring opportunities beyond themselves.
Observing that many young people still regard government employment as the only viable career option, Khamo said such a mindset could lead to disappointment, particularly when jobs offered fixed and modest salaries.
He encouraged young people to consider entrepreneurship and other productive opportunities.
Nagaland, he said, had immense potential, with a market and access to capital for those willing to pursue business with dedication and determination.
He emphasised the importance of skill-based education and developing a skilled workforce capable of making use of available opportunities.
Khamo said Nagas should not have to depend on outsiders for groceries, bakery products and confectioneries, which, he maintained, were within the capabilities of local entrepreneurs.
He also stressed the need for entrepreneurs to build the confidence of financial institutions and market partners.
Stating that successful businesses often begin on a small scale, Khamo said enterprises could even be started from one's kitchen with modest investment, provided there was willingness and determination to overcome challenges.
He encouraged the trainees to aspire to become employers while continuously improving their skills.
Highlighting the potential of food processing in the state, he said separate funds had been allocated to MLAs that could be utilised for the economic uplift and development of the people.
In his opening remarks, WRD Director Vilone Sakhrie spoke about the collaboration that led to the training programme and appreciated Khamo's initiative and support for women's empowerment.
He urged the trainees to remain grateful for the opportunity and make the best use of the skills they had acquired.
Vekhozo Ringa, Headmaster of GHS Japan Riba, said entrepreneurship was essential for asserting one's existence and competing in today's world. He challenged the trainees to move beyond their comfort zones and bring innovation and creativity to the baking and confectionery sector.
While acknowledging that many people had already entered the trade, Ringa urged the trainees not to limit themselves to products already available in the market but to develop innovative and aesthetically appealing products to attract consumers.
Reflections on the training programme were shared by Baking and Confectionery Instructor Aoakum Difusa and trainee Dutalu Nienu.
Machineries and certificates were distributed to the trainees by Advisor Khamo.