After completing high school, Shangreiso decided to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. For a young man from a remote village, life in Imphal was a revelation. The bustling streets, the diverse people, and the energy of the city filled him with a sense of excitement and possibility. College introduced him to the world of business, finance, and entrepreneurship, concepts that ignited a spark within him. He learned about the fundamentals of commerce, the intricacies of trade, and the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives. For the first time, he began to believe that his childhood dreams of creating something meaningful were not only possible but within his reach.

Graduation marked a turning point for Shangreiso. Armed with knowledge and a newfound confidence, he returned to Sharkaphung with a vision: to start his own business. But the journey was far from easy. The villagers were skeptical, viewing his aspirations as impractical and risky. “Why take such a chance?” they asked. “Why not find a steady job and ensure a secure future?” But Shangreiso had a fire in his heart and a vision in his mind that couldn’t be extinguished by doubts. He was determined to prove that his ideas, born out of passion and a desire to uplift his community, could indeed become a reality.

With little capital but a wealth of determination, Shangreiso began exploring the local resources available to him. He noticed that Sharkaphung, though remote, had access to various raw materials that could be used to create marketable goods. He saw potential where others saw limitations. Slowly, he began experimenting with small-scale manufacturing, using whatever resources were within reach. His initial attempts were humble—crafting simple items that he believed would have value in the local markets. Through trial and error, he honed his skills, learning from each setback and celebrating each small victory. Every time he made a sale, it reinforced his belief that he was on the right path.

As his small business began to take shape, Shangreiso realized the importance of legitimacy and compliance. He decided to formally register his business, naming it “S Tastes,” a brand that he hoped would one day resonate beyond the boundaries of his village. He went through the process of obtaining an Udyam registration under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in India, which officially recognized S Tastes as a micro-enterprise. This registration was more than just a formality; it was a validation of his efforts and a stepping stone towards a brighter future.

Around this time, he also obtained an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) certification, which allowed him to venture into food manufacturing—a field he had always been interested in. The certification opened doors for him, enabling him to produce goods that met quality standards and could be sold in larger markets. He expanded his product line, focusing on items that leveraged the unique resources of his region. His products began to gain popularity not only in Sharkaphung but also in neighboring villages, as people recognized the quality and authenticity that S Tastes represented.

As his business grew, Shangreiso faced new challenges. Managing finances, sourcing raw materials, and navigating the logistics of rural supply chains were daunting tasks. However, he approached each challenge with the same resilience and determination that had driven him from the beginning. He knew that his business was not just about profit; it was a means to create employment and improve the quality of life in his community. He hired locals, providing them with training and stable income, thereby creating a ripple effect of empowerment in Sharkaphung.

In time, S Tastes became a symbol of hope and inspiration in the village. Young people, who once saw government jobs as the only path to success, began to dream of starting their own ventures. Shangreiso’s journey had shown them that with passion, hard work, and perseverance, it was possible to achieve something extraordinary even in a small village. His success also attracted attention from local authorities, who recognized the positive impact his business was having on the community. They offered support and guidance, helping him to access government schemes and incentives designed to promote rural entrepreneurship.

One of the defining moments for S Tastes was when Shangreiso obtained a GST (Goods and Services Tax) registration. This not only enabled him to expand his market reach but also positioned S Tastes as a credible, tax-compliant business. With his products now reaching customers across Manipur, he began to dream of scaling further, of one day making S Tastes a brand recognized throughout the entire Northeast region. His journey had come full circle—from a young boy with a quiet dream in a small village to a respected entrepreneur whose business was making a real difference.

Looking back, Shangreiso reflects on how far he has come. He remembers the early days, the doubts, the struggles, and the small victories that kept him going. He realizes that his story is not just about business; it is about resilience, vision, and the power of dreams. He hopes that his journey will inspire others, not only in Sharkaphung but in villages across India, to believe in their potential and to pursue their dreams with courage.

Today, S Tastes stands as a testament to what can be achieved with passion and perseverance. It is more than a business—it is a beacon of hope, a symbol of possibility, and a reminder that greatness can emerge from even the humblest beginnings. Shangreiso Shinglai’s journey is a story of transformation, not only of his life but of his community, and it serves as an inspiring example of the impact one person’s dream can have on the world around them.