Chümoukedima, Nagaland | 8 September 2026: YouthNet marked a significant milestone in its efforts to strengthen market access for local entrepreneurs with the inauguration of its third Made in Nagaland (MIN) Centre at 5th Mile, Chümoukedima, Nagaland.
The centre was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Governor of Nagaland, Shri Nand Kishore Yadav, on 8th September 2026, in the presence of Smt. Hekani Jakhalu, MLA & Advisor, Department of Industries & Commerce; Shri Abu Metha, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Nagaland; Shri Zhaleo Rio, Hon’ble MLA & Advisor, Urban Development & Municipal Affairs; Hon’ble MLA Shri Wangpang Konyak, Hon’ble MLA & Advisor, Department of Social Welfare, Government of Nagaland, Shri Benei M. Lamthiu Hon’ble MLA among other dignitaries, entrepreneurs and stakeholders.
The new centre is envisioned as a one-stop platform for the marketing, promotion and retail of products created by Naga entrepreneurs, bringing together the state’s diverse products, creativity and entrepreneurial talent under one roof. The Chümoukedima centre currently showcases more than 450 products from 95 entrepreneurs, representing a wide range of enterprises and value chains from across Nagaland.
The product range includes traditional shawls and mekhelas, apparel, handicrafts, jewellery, food products, soaps, footwear and other locally produced goods, alongside a dedicated souvenir section featuring products from entrepreneurs across the state.
Through Made in Nagaland, YouthNet seeks to address one of the key challenges faced by local enterprises—Access to markets. By creating a physical retail and showcase platform, the initiative provides entrepreneurs with greater product visibility, opportunities for customer engagement, market exposure and a pathway to reach consumers beyond their immediate communities.
Governor Calls for Stronger Market Linkages for Local Enterprises
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Governor Shri Nand Kishore Yadav highlighted Nagaland’s rich traditional knowledge, indigenous crafts, farming practices and community values, describing them as important expressions of the state’s identity and resilience.
He noted that while Nagaland possesses considerable talent and a wealth of locally produced goods, many artisans, farmers and entrepreneurs continue to face challenges in accessing wider markets. He emphasised the role of initiatives such as Made in Nagaland in bridging the gap between local producers and consumers and creating greater opportunities for livelihoods and employment.
The Governor also stressed the importance of strengthening entrepreneurs with skills and capabilities in marketing, technology, branding, packaging, digital marketing and market intelligence, while maintaining product quality, certification, consistency and reliable supply.
Hon’ble Governor Said ‘May Made in Nagaland grow from a platform into a movement, and from a movement into a powerful engine of entrepreneurship, employment, and economic growth for Nagaland.’
Building an Ecosystem for Naga Entrepreneurs
Speaking at the launch, MLA & Advisor, Department of Industries & Commerce, Smt. Hekani Jakhalu reflected on the genesis of YouthNet and the vision behind Made in Nagaland. She noted that the initiative was created to provide entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their products and access the support and opportunities needed to grow their businesses.
Highlighting the creativity, energy and entrepreneurial potential of young people in Nagaland, she emphasised the need for greater access to finance, branding, marketing, technology and business support.
Through initiatives including the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme, YouthNet continues to work towards strengthening local enterprises and creating opportunities for Nagaland’s entrepreneurs to access larger markets.
Shri Abu Metha, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Nagaland, congratulated YouthNet on the launch of its third Made in Nagaland store and commended its efforts in empowering young people and entrepreneurs across the state. He highlighted YouthNet’s impact on the lives of more than 50,000 people, particularly through initiatives that enable entrepreneurs to become market-ready and job-ready.
He also acknowledged how a small group of committed individuals can create a significant impact on the lives of thousands across Nagaland, and urged the Hon’ble Governor to visit the Nagaland Emporium in New Delhi. He remarked that YouthNet exemplifies the ambitions and aspirations of Nagaland, demonstrating the potential of local talent and entrepreneurship to drive livelihoods and economic growth.
Ms. Nuneseno Chase, Director, YouthNet, highlighted the growing role of Made in Nagaland in championing local entrepreneurs and creating new pathways to market.
In partnership with the Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation (NHHDC), Made in Nagaland is also working to promote products from Nagaland in Delhi through the Nagaland Emporium. The initiative has also emerged as a prominent aggregator of locally produced goods, with products being made available through digital marketplaces including Amazon, Flipkart and ONDC.
According to Chase, these efforts are aimed at positioning Nagaland more prominently in conversations around entrepreneurship, innovation and locally made products, while enabling Naga enterprises to reach consumers across India.
“Every product created by a Naga entrepreneur represents not just a business, but also creativity, skills, local knowledge and economic potential. Made in Nagaland is our effort to give these entrepreneurs a platform where their products can be seen, valued and accessed by a wider market.” Ms. Nuneseno Chase, Director, YouthNet
From Local Products to Wider Markets
The launch of the Chümoukedima centre further strengthens YouthNet’s efforts to build an ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship, livelihoods and local enterprise development.
By bringing products from different value chains and entrepreneurs together in one space, Made in Nagaland aims to create stronger connections between producers and consumers while encouraging greater appreciation and consumption of locally made products.
The initiative also seeks to create a more sustainable pathway for entrepreneurs by combining physical retail, market linkages, digital commerce, branding and promotion. As local enterprises grow, the platform aims to support them in expanding their customer base, improving their market readiness and exploring opportunities beyond Nagaland.
YouthNet believes that strengthening local enterprises and value chains can contribute to sustainable economic growth by generating livelihoods, encouraging entrepreneurship, retaining economic value within communities and creating opportunities for young people and women.
The Made in Nagaland Centre at 5th Mile, Chümoukedima is now open to visitors interested in discovering, supporting and purchasing products made by Naga entrepreneurs from across the state.
About YouthNet
YouthNet is a Nagaland-based organisation working towards youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, livelihoods and community development. Through its programmes and initiatives, YouthNet works to create opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs while strengthening pathways towards sustainable livelihoods and economic development.
About Made in Nagaland
Made in Nagaland (MIN) is an initiative of YouthNet that provides a platform for Naga entrepreneurs to showcase, promote and market their products and services. The initiative seeks to strengthen market access, increase the visibility of local enterprises, connect producers with consumers and encourage greater appreciation and consumption of products made in Nagaland.