More than 70 entrepreneurs from Tuensang, Shamator and Noklak districts attended a two-day Vendor Development Programme at Tuensang Town Hall on 26 and 27 February under the Raising and Accelerating Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Performance (RAMP). The event was organised by YouthNet in collaboration with the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation (NIDC) and the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. The programme formed part of the World Bank-supported RAMP initiative and aimed to broaden market access for local enterprises.

The initiative sought to connect Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and financial institutions to facilitate vendor relationships and promote credit and supply chain linkages. Organisers said the sessions were intended to help participants identify vendor opportunities with government and corporate buyers and increase awareness of central and state schemes that support competitiveness. The programme also emphasised practical steps for market entry and compliance to support sustainable growth.

Representatives from the State GST Department, State Bank of India (SBI), Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation (NHHDC), Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) and Nagaland State Co-operative Bank addressed participants on GST compliance, vendor development and credit linkages. The sessions included guidance on promoting indigenous products under RAMP’s Naturally Nagaland initiative and on listing through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and other online platforms. Presenters also outlined support available for handloom and handicraft producers and for enterprises focused on food processing, weaving and retail.

The programme featured experience sharing by two local entrepreneurs who outlined their journeys and practical approaches to help peers understand operational challenges and market strategies. An exhibition showcased products from food processing, handloom, handicrafts, weaving, agriculture, retail and service enterprises and aimed to stimulate direct buyer interest. YouthNet said similar programmes will be organised in other districts to further empower MSMEs and to strengthen Nagaland’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.