Sat May 31 04:18:04 UTC 2025: **Nagaland Brews a Coffee Revolution, Aims for Global Recognition**

**Dimapur, Nagaland** – More than four decades after its humble beginnings, coffee cultivation in Nagaland is gaining significant momentum, transforming the economic landscape of the northeast Indian state. Fueled by government support and a wave of entrepreneurial spirit, coffee farms and roasteries are emerging across Nagaland, offering a new identity and economic opportunity.

What started as an initiative by the Coffee Board of India in 1981 has blossomed into nearly 250 coffee farms, engaging around 9,500 farmers across 11 districts. The state now boasts eight roastery units and numerous homegrown cafes, including the trendy Juro Coffee House in Dimapur, which offers a unique “farm-to-cup” experience.

This coffee boom is a welcome change in a region historically plagued by political unrest and economic dependence on traditional agriculture. Young entrepreneurs like Searon Yanthan, founder of Juro Coffee House, are leading the charge, aiming to create economic opportunities beyond government jobs and foster community growth.

Key to this success has been the Nagaland government’s decision to prioritize coffee development, providing resources, training, and infrastructure support to farmers. However, challenges remain. Farmers like Limakumzak Walling face issues with unpredictable weather, soil degradation, and limited access to processing facilities.

Despite these hurdles, Nagaland’s coffee is gaining recognition, even winning awards at the Aurora International Taste Challenge in South Africa. The state achieved its highest-ever production of 48 metric tons in 2024, with Naga coffee supplied to cafes across India.

Looking ahead, the focus is on improving bean quality, post-harvest processing, and achieving consistent production to compete in the global market. Coffee entrepreneurs like Lichan Humtsoe, founder of Ete Coffee, dream of securing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Nagaland’s specialty coffee, solidifying its place on the world stage.

“People of the land must become the brand,” says Humtsoe, highlighting the vision of a future where Nagaland is synonymous with high-quality, ethically produced coffee.

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