Nagaland showcases coffee potential at Coffee Canvas’ event

Kohima: Nagaland’s Department of Land Resources, in partnership with the Coffee Board of India and AIC-CCRI-CED, hosted the ‘Coffee Canvas’ event at the Capital Cultural Hall, Kohima, under the theme “A Journey from Farm to Global Market.” The event spotlighted Nagaland’s growing recognition in the national and global coffee markets. MLA and Advisor for Land Resources, G. Ikuto Zhimomi, underscored the rising global demand for coffee and highlighted Nagaland’s untapped cultivation potential. “With 62.7% of Nagaland’s land suitable for coffee, we have just scratched the surface,” he said, adding that the state is emerging as a strong player in the Northeast coffee sector. Zhimomi also celebrated the international accolades won by Nagaland coffee, including silver and gold at South Africa’s Aurora International Taste Challenge. Albert Ngullie, Director of Land Resources, reiterated the state’s long-term goal to bring 50,000 hectares under coffee cultivation by 2047. He stressed the department’s focus on sustainable, employment-generating practices and the promotion of coffee as an agro-forestry crop. “Our mission is built on ecology, employment, and economy,” he said. With only 8% of the developed area currently yielding harvests, Nagaland has already produced over 195 metric tonnes of parchment and cherry coffee. Ngullie expressed optimism that 50% of plantations will reach the harvesting stage in the next two years. The event featured technical sessions on coffee exports, digital packaging, brand management, and live brewing demonstrations. It also included a welcome address by Dr. G. Hukugha Sema and presentations from experts including the Coffee Board’s Partha Pratim Choudary and Eté Coffee’s quality team. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Hekato N, Additional Director, Department of Land Resources.