March 10, Kohima: Members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly today emphasized the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in improving Nagaland's economy during a discussion in the House.
Initiating the discussion, Advisor, Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu described MSMEs as the silent engine of society that creates jobs and contributes significantly to economic growth without relying on government support.
She informed that registrations of MSMEs in the state on the Udyam portal have increased significantly to over 48,600 currently, following the launch of the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) program.
Ms. Jakhalu also highlighted that the Nagaland state has around 267 registered startups generating revenues of about 72 crore rupees and providing employment to about 1,500 people in the 2024-25 period.
Despite the progress, she noted that several challenges continue to hinder growth, including limited access to finance, inconsistent power supply, poor road connectivity, and multiple, unresolved taxes.
The Advisor further highlighted that nearly 95 percent of MSMEs in Nagaland fall under the micro-enterprise category, with many operating as nano-enterprises with annual turnovers of less than 25 lakh rupees.
These ultra-small businesses, such as retail shops, salons, welding units, and handloom and woodcraft enterprises, play a major role in the local economy but often struggle to access bank loans, forcing them to rely on high-interest loans from loan sharks, which can damage businesses and create financial distress for families.
To address this issue, the Advisor urged the government to revisit the Chief Minister's Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI) and consider creating a dedicated fund or a simplified loan system for nano-entrepreneurs.
She also called for introducing a state-level public procurement policy to encourage government departments to buy goods and services from local entrepreneurs. The Advisor said such measures would support local businesses and help achieve the vision of a self-reliant Nagaland and Viksit Nagaland by 2047.
Participating in the discussion, Nyusietho Nyuthe emphasized the need for skill training and harnessing the potential of natural resources to address unemployment among youths.
Meanwhile, Kudecho Khamo urged for stronger policy interventions and active participation from banks to sustain MSME-led economic growth.
MLAs Wangpang Konyak and Jwenga Seb also participated in the discussion, stressing for stronger government support, improved infrastructure, and greater financial access to empower MSMEs in the state.
