Officials, artisans and other attendees pose outside NEPED's Emporium during its inauguration in Tuensang on June 23. (Photo Courtesy: NEPED)
TUENSANG, JUNE 24 (MExN): The first emporium established by the Nagaland Empowerment of People through Economic Development (NEPED) was inaugurated in Tuensang on June 23, marking a significant step towards improving market access for artisans and promoting indigenous products from Eastern Nagaland.
Established with support from the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, the emporium is expected to serve as a centre for preserving traditional craftsmanship, promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening rural livelihoods and expanding access to national and international markets, an NEPED release informed.
Inaugurating the facility, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Tuensang, Berimong Chang described the emporium as an important indicator of development and emphasised that development is a collective process. He said the facility would strengthen the local economy by creating opportunities for artisans to improve their livelihoods while showcasing their cultural identity.
Noting that many skilled artisans often lack adequate market access, the ADC expressed hope that the emporium would serve as a catalyst for larger enterprises by providing a permanent platform for displaying and marketing local products.
He also stressed the importance of preserving the authenticity of traditional crafts, stating that originality enhances their cultural and economic value and can attract tourists, visitors and traders.
Highlighting the potential of digital platforms, Berimong said indigenous products could be promoted to wider markets through social media, e-commerce and other online channels. He further expressed confidence that the younger generation would be encouraged to take up traditional enterprises with the potential to reach national and international markets.
Earlier, Takum Chang, Divisional Accounts Officer, PWD Housing, Tuensang, and former POU (Project Operations Unit) Member of NEPED, described the inauguration as a milestone that opens new opportunities and markets for artisans and craftsmen of Eastern Nagaland.
He noted that communities such as the Yimkhiung, Tikhir, Khiamniungan, Chang, Phom, Sangtam and Konyak Nagas have long maintained cultural ties across the Myanmar border and said the emporium has the potential to evolve into a cultural and commercial hub connecting Eastern Nagaland with neighbouring communities and markets.
Takum said the project was conceived to provide a dedicated platform for showcasing the region's rich heritage of beadwork, handloom, bamboo and cane crafts, wood carving and other indigenous products, while bridging the gap between artisans and markets through a permanent space for display and marketing.
He expressed hope that the facility would boost livelihoods, strengthen the local economy and preserve traditional heritage.
The former POU Member also acknowledged the support of the Union Ministry of Textiles, the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), and all stakeholders.
Likewise, Er P Ngamen Chang said the facility would benefit artisans from Tuensang and across Nagaland by creating greater visibility for indigenous products and promoting the State's rich cultural heritage.
The programme was chaired by Asa Tep, POU Member, NEPED, while Rev Noksen pronounced the invocation. Among others, EACs Dr Zujanbeni Ngullie and Tenlong Phom, officials from NEPED, established artisans and other dignitaries attended the inauguration.
