A lot can happen over a glass of wine. For Tage Rita, it led to the birth of the first organic kiwi winery in India, Naara Aaba. Rita’s incredible journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration, especially for the women of Northeast India. Here’s why:
Transforming Waste into Wine (Naara Aaba)
In Arunachal Pradesh, the fertile land produced an abundance of exotic fruits. But, sadly, many of these fruits went to waste due to inadequate marketing. Recognizing this, Rita, with a heart full of determination, decided to turn this challenge into an opportunity. She began creating wines from these fruits, ensuring they didn’t go to waste. It wasn’t just about business for her but reviving the local farming community and preserving the rich produce of her land.
Why Should Others Be Inspired from Tage Rita?
- Local Empowerment: Rita’s venture into winemaking wasn’t solely for profits. She aimed at uplifting the local community by sourcing their harvest, ensuring they get a fair share and recognition for their hard work. By doing so, she bridged the gap between local harvest and the market, empowering farmers.
- Women Power: Breaking traditional norms, Rita has emerged as a shining example of what women can achieve when given the opportunity. On International Women’s Day in 2022, she was honored with the Nari Shakti Puraskar, showcasing that women can indeed lead and succeed in any field.
- Organic Approach: In a world where everyone is racing to make profits, Rita emphasized organic wine-making. From kiwi to pear, all ingredients are sourced organically. She wanted the world to taste the real flavors of Arunachal Pradesh, unaltered and pure.
- Creating Employment: Rita is not just an entrepreneur; she’s a beacon of hope for many. Under her guidance, several school and college dropouts found meaningful employment, giving them a renewed purpose in life.
Tage’s Recognitions for Naara Aaba
Throughout her journey, Rita’s endeavors in the realm of organic winemaking and community upliftment have garnered her several accolades:
- Vasundhara Award: Bestowed upon her in 2017 by Sreemanta Sankara Mission, Guwahati.
- Pioneer Women Entrepreneur of Ziro: An honor given in 2017 by the NGO Helping Hands, spotlighting her role in promoting women’s business.
- Innovative Entrepreneur Award: By SMILE ZIRO, in 2017, celebrating her fresh approach to business.
- Women Transforming India Awards: Organized by the United Nations and NITI Aayog in 2018, recognizing her transformative impact.
- Citation by the Hon. Governor of Arunachal Pradesh: In 2018, Brig. Dr. B.D. Mishra (Retd) celebrated her contributions.
- Certificate of Appreciation: Given in 2020 by the Department of Women and Child Development, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Nari Shakti Puraskar: In 2022, this prestigious recognition marked her influence and prowess in her field.
The Wine Range at Naara Aaba
The Naara Aaba winery boasts a diverse range:
- Kiwi Wine: A luscious blend of ripe tropical fruits, perfect for those who enjoy a sweet yet balanced wine.
- Kiwi Wine (Classic): A refreshing wine with a lively finish, reminiscent of ripe kiwis and citrus fruits.
- Plum Wine (Red & Golden): Crafted from the red and juicy green plums of Ziro Valley, these wines are a sensory delight.
- Pecha Wine (Wild Apple): An off-dry wine with a touch of licorice, perfect for those who appreciate subtle flavors.
- Pear Wine: Infused with the exotic Salyo, this wine offers a crisp and refreshing finish.
Also Read : Indigenous Peoples Day : History, Heritage, and Honor | Why India Should Celebrate Similar Day?
Tage Rita’s story is a proof to the fact that with determination and a clear vision, one can achieve greatness. From transforming wasted fruits into a thriving business, empowering the local community, to setting an example for women everywhere, Rita’s journey is truly inspirational. So the next time you sip a glass of Naara Aaba wine, remember, it’s not just wine, it’s a tale of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
