Dimapur: The Nagaland International Trade Expo (NITex) kicked off its second edition on Thursday at Senden Riju, Purana Bazaar, near ISBT, launching a five-day extravaganza. Organized by the Business Association of Nagas (BAN), with support from the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), National SC-ST Hub, and the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), the inaugural day showcased captivating live demonstrations, including chainsaw woodcarving, artwork by a specially-abled child, FRP Art, and loin loom weaving. The expo is set to run from January 18 till January 22.
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It is worth mentioning that two enterprising Ukhrul-based entrepreneurs, each with their unique brands, added vibrancy to the expo, showcasing and promoting their distinctive offerings. Among them is October Pumpkin, an innovative brand in scented candles, renowned for its eco-friendly approach and affordability. Another standout is Thapo’s Misty Hills, a distinguished wine manufacturer, rooted in traditional winemaking techniques, offering a flavorful journey through indigenous plum wine, Heikha Theira. Their participation not only enriched the expo but also highlighted the diverse and innovative spirit of Ukhrul’s entrepreneurial landscape.
The expo stands out for showcasing an extensive array of products and services spanning diverse industries. Renowned automobile brands, including Mahindra, MG, Toyota, Skoda, Audi, Nexa, and Isuzu, are spotlighting their latest models. Additionally, a tempting food court offers a variety of local cuisines, adding a flavorful dimension to the event. Attendees can also engage in interactions with representatives from various government departments and expo traders, enhancing the comprehensive experience of the expo.
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The special guest for the first day, Chairman DPDB Tseminyu, Jwenga Seb, MLA, inaugurated PREFAB shelters—an innovative prefabricated building system offering versatile applications.
Jwenga Seb, MLA, and Chairman DPDB Tseminyu praised NITex for fostering collaboration, local entrepreneurship, and economic upliftment. Seb emphasized prioritizing local production in agriculture and tourism, advocating for manufacturing sector focus, enduring corporate partnerships, and robust bank support. Stressing entrepreneurs as the driving force, Seb highlighted the crucial government-business partnership, expressing confidence in NITex as an economic catalyst. His insightful remarks underscored the event’s significance in shaping Nagaland’s development.
The event is well underway, setting the stage for a robust exchange of ideas, collaboration, and economic opportunities.
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Brand Highlights:
October Pumpkin, founded by Rinchon Kashung showcased its eco-friendly scented candles at the expo, featuring 12 unique scents. Crafted from 100% domestically grown soya wax, presented in elegant Longpi black body jars, and priced 50% lower than competitors, the brand encourages sustainability by repurposing the jars. A testament to creative passion and environmental consciousness.
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Thapo’s Misty Hills, a wine manufacturing company in Ukhrul, stands out with its traditional winemaking method, preserving the essence passed down by forefathers. Heikha Theira, their indigenous plum wine, showcases the rich flavor of Ukhrul plums. Purchasing surplus plums from local farmers, Misty Hills combines tradition with modern techniques to produce high-quality wines. With 12 unique wine variants, including Heikha Theira, Thapo’s Misty Hills has sold over 10,000 units. The company envisions large-scale production, creating employment and empowering the community by involving locals in the labor-intensive process.