Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen highlighted the significant contribution of women to Nagaland’s rural economy, emphasizing the need for innovation, technology, and climate-smart solutions for sustainable development. He inaugurated a program focusing on “Women-Led Rural Enterprises for a Climate-Smart Nagaland,” stressing the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs with modern technology, clean energy solutions, and better market access.
Imchen underlined that women have been pivotal in Nagaland’s rural economy and called for the next phase of development to be driven by innovation and climate-smart solutions. The event, organized in collaboration with the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, aimed to promote climate-smart technologies among Self-Help Group members and rural entrepreneurs across the state.
The Chief Secretary commended the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission for mobilizing over 1.17 lakh rural households into Self-Help Groups across the state. Despite the success of the SHG movement, he acknowledged that many women entrepreneurs still face challenges in accessing technology, finance, and markets.
Highlighting the impact of climate change on agriculture, including erratic rainfall patterns and declining productivity, Imchen stressed the urgent need for renewable energy and low-carbon solutions to enhance rural livelihoods. He also emphasized the role of financial institutions in supporting rural enterprises and encouraged women entrepreneurs to leverage the program’s opportunities for strengthening their livelihoods.
The program featured exhibition stalls showcasing innovative technologies and products developed by Self-Help Groups, aiming to provide a platform for stakeholders to explore climate-smart solutions. It included a Technology Mela, live demonstrations, orientation sessions, and a panel discussion on inspiring stories of women entrepreneurs in Self-Help Groups.
