Maintaining law and order in a state like Nagaland, where geographical challenges and socio-political dynamics often present hurdles, is no small task. For an IPS officer, ensuring security while also engaging with the community in meaningful ways requires a deep understanding of people’s aspirations. Dr. Pritpal Kaur, SP Phek, Nagaland (2016 batch, Nagaland cadre) has taken her role beyond conventional policing by fostering economic empowerment among women in Phek district. With the launch of ‘PHEK FLAVOURS’ on International Women’s Day, she is helping local women turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods.
BUILDING SELF-SUFFICIENCY THROUGH LOCAL RESOURCES
‘PHEK FLAVOURS’ is a women-led brand initiated by Dr. Pritpal Kaur with the vision of making Phek’s women self-sufficient. Through this initiative, local Self-Help Group (SHG) members are being trained to process local fruits and vegetables into value-added products such as juices, pickles, jams, chips, and herbal powders. The brand was officially launched on March 8, 2025, at the Phek Police Church in the presence of Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, Head of KVK Phek, EAC Imna Walling, district administration officials, and members of various SHGs.
Speaking about the initiative with Indian Masterminds, Dr. Pritpal Kaur emphasised the importance of financial independence for women and its role in fostering community growth. “This initiative is designed to be self-sustaining. The women trained here will pass on their skills to other SHGs, school dropouts, and those in need of rehabilitation, including crime victims. Economic empowerment can bring stability and peace to society, and we are taking small but strong steps towards it,” she said.
TRAINING AND MARKET EXPANSION
Over the past two months, the women involved in the initiative have undergone extensive training in food processing, packaging, and marketing, conducted by the Nagaland tool room and training centre (NTTC) under ministry of MSME. Thirty women farmers and SHG members have been actively engaged in product development, and their products will soon be displayed at the Kisaan Mela stall at KVK Porba on March 19, 2025. This platform will enable them to showcase their products to visitors from across India, expanding their market reach.
“Marketing and transportation logistics may pose challenges, but with teamwork, we are confident of overcoming them. The enthusiasm among SHGs is high, and we are excited about the exposure they will receive at Kisaan Mela,” Dr. Kaur stated.
A DIVERSE RANGE OF PRODUCTS
‘PHEK FLAVOURS’ has introduced 17 locally produced items, reflecting the region’s rich agricultural diversity. These include Red Chilly Chips, Yonchak Pickle, Ginger Candy, Roselle Powder, Tutti Frutti, Banana Chips, Gooseberry Ginger, Kerala Chips, Orange Juice, Lime Squash, Mixed Vegetable Pickle, Ash Gourd Candy, and more. Each product is made using traditional techniques combined with modern food processing methods to ensure high quality and unique flavours.
CREATING A SUSTAINABLE MODEL FOR GROWTH
A key aspect of ‘PHEK FLAVOURS’ is the concept of a ‘chain effect’—where each trained SHG member is tasked with teaching others, ensuring continuity even after administrative transfers. “The idea is to make the system self-sustaining so that even if we are no longer here, the initiative continues to grow. This approach ensures long-term impact and community-led progress,” Dr. Kaur explained.
Phek district has a significant number of school dropouts looking for employment opportunities. ‘PHEK FLAVOURS’ aims to provide them with a viable platform to develop entrepreneurial skills and gain financial stability. Additionally, women and children in need of protection under the law, including victims of crimes, will receive training to help them reintegrate into society with a sense of security and purpose.
PREVENTING SOCIAL ISSUES THROUGH ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES
By engaging young individuals in productive work, the initiative also serves as a preventive measure against substance abuse and other negative influences. “Many young people, due to a lack of employment opportunities, fall into wrong habits like drug abuse. Giving them an avenue for work can channel their energy into something positive,” Dr. Kaur pointed out.
The launch of ‘PHEK FLAVOURS’ is not just about promoting local products but about fostering long-term economic resilience in the community. It is a step towards ensuring that women and young people in Phek have the means to build their futures on their own terms.
For those interested in purchasing products from ‘PHEK FLAVOURS,’ enquiries can be made at +91 70056 37805 or 96123 73606.
