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DIMAPUR — With an aim to support startups, entrepreneurs and businesses in the state, as well as provide a platform for exchanging ideas and collaborations, the government of Nagaland has set up an Integrated Business Hub and Innovation Centre (IBHIC) in Dimapur.
The centre, which has state-of-the-art facilities, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio along with NITI Aayog vice chairman Suman Kumar Bery on Wednesday.
Located at Forest Colony in Dimapur, the building was initially constructed as a ‘Shopping Complex and Parking Plaza’ but was abandoned for years, before the government decided to transform it into an innovation centre that fosters innovative culture and sharing of ideas.
Rio said during the inaugural programme that the facility is state funded and built by the Forest department. In view of the building being converted into an innovation centre, the state cabinet decided to support it, and hence announced during the recent budget session.
The new facility will create opportunities and platforms for entrepreneurs, innovators and the youth to strive towards their aspirations, he said, while expressing hope that it will become a hub for business and enterprise; reflect the energy and ambitions of the youth, who are educated but require motivational skilling.
‘We appreciate NITI Aayog for partnering with us in the field of providing skill development to our youth as part of Skill India with special emphasis in the North-east region,’ he added.
While noting that the people must embrace innovation, entrepreneurship and investment to truly unlock the state’s potential, he said the state government has ‘conceptualised and brought to life the integrated business hub, a dynamic platform designed to facilitate and support investors, startups, and entrepreneurs alike, with this vision in mind.
The CM ensured that that due diligence, observance of best practices and utmost transparency and meritocracy would be maintained in the establishment and operation of the new facility.
Stating that priority would be given to startups, entrepreneurs, and investors who are eager to invest in Nagaland, he said: “We encourage collaborations between local talent and investors to promote innovation and seize untapped opportunities.”
It will also create opportunities for retail, food courts, corporate offices, marketing fronts for PSUs and innovative enterprises amongst other verticals, he added.
“The IBHIC will not only serve as office space for investors but also provide modern amenities and a welcoming working environment. It will undergo necessary renovations to become a contemporary workplace that meets the needs of the modern investor,” he said.
He also mentioned that the government will ensure seamless transition to permanent locations for investors as well as provide essential support services, including legal assistance, information on local business practices, and access to vital resources, in order to ensure ease of doing business and single window clearance for investor partners and corporate friends.
Also speaking at the event, Deputy CM TR Zeliang said that this collaborative effort underscores collective commitment to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem that fosters creativity and forward- thinking entrepreneurship.
“Through platforms like IBHIC, we aim to provide our aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, resources, and guidance to transform their ideas into impactful ventures that drive sustainable growth and create meaningful opportunities for our people,” he said, adding that it would serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth in realising their dreams.
Suman Kumar Bery said that the Hub will act as a catalyst for employment among the youth in the state and bring about sustainable development.
Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog; and Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman of IDAN, also spoke at the event.
During the inaugural programme, seven projects were launched namely: Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre (IPFC), Capacity Building Training for NGOs by CII, Innovation and Startup Training for Entrepreneurs; Startups Podcast Initiative, SCK Dimapur, Entrepreneurs Networking Station, and Education and Skill Loan Facilitation Centre.
As many as four Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were also signed at the programme. (Refer sidebar for details)
Replying to a question raised on the sidelines of the event, related to the Southern Angami People’s Organisation (SAPO) and Mao Council land dispute in Kezolta/ Koziirii/ Kazing area, Rio
When as asked about the land dispute between the Southern Angami People’s Organisation (SAPO) and Mao Council in Kezolta/ Koziirii/ Kazing area, on the sidelines of the programme, Rio said that the state government is in touch with the Manipur government as well as the communities involved. So, he said “we should find solution”.
List of MoUs signed
1. Tandem Global Consulting Pvt. Ltd. and Government of Nagaland.
2. Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) and Emporium Training and Consultancy Private Limited, powered by Eagle Crest Training Academy and Consultancy, Vikiye Colony.
3. IDAN and SBI for education, skill development and entrepreneurs loan.
4. My startup TV with Hills FM and IDAN for establishment of media project in Nagaland