Organic Fruits, Veggies are in High Demand but Storing, Finding Markets is a Big Challenge: Sitharaman

According to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Organic vegetables and fruits grown in Nagaland are in high demand, but assembling, storing, and locating markets is a difficult challenge.

The finance minister underlined the importance of identifying one product in each district of the state with shared amenities and digital marketing while addressing the "Nagaland Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Investment Conclave 2022" on Monday. She emphasised on the value of branding and said, "Once you associate it with an image, the world is waiting, but efforts must be made to brand it.”

The Atal Tinkering Lab, a prize initiative of the NITI Aayog's Atal Innovation Mission, was another suggestion made by the finance minister. She saw homestays in Nagaland as a huge potential where many domestic tourists could experience the locals' natural way of life. On compulsory CSR investments, the Minister said that the CSR board takes the decision and funds are provided depending on social activity, and CSR occurs when investments are made.

The finance minister must participate in healthcare and logistics as it has good growth potential. She also emphasised the need for Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) training facilities for youth to get skilled along with certificates and assume leadership roles in those industries.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said during his speech that the meeting would be a game changer for the state.

He said that Sitharaman gave the Central Government her full support and gratitude for taking great focus on the development of the northeastern region.

According to the Chief Minister, the state government is expecting industries to explore the unused investment potential of the state in various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, education, and forestry.

On the banking front, the minister hoped that the conclave's banking track will lead to increased and hassle-free bank credit offtake, as well as contribute to development efforts and promote aspiring entrepreneurs.