Paiwang calls for focus on sustainable growth

December 15, 2023 27 Views No Comment

KOHIMA, DECEMBER 15 (MExN): Nagaland Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Paiwang Konyak today said that the State Government haS acknowledged the Eastern region’s developmental disparities and it is an opportune moment to focus on sustainable growth, prioritizing institutions, economic development, infrastructure and employment in this region.

The Minister was speaking on the second day of the 75thPlatinum Jubilee of the Konyak Students Union at Mon on December 14.

He further spoke on the disparities in distribution of reservation quota despite the Konyak population surpassing that of its fellow Eastern tribes, placing Konyaks as the most ‘backward’ among the communities. The minister underscored certain concerns that he said have adversely impacted the Konyak people over the past decade and a half.

Asserting that the celebration signifies the jubilation and achievements of the past; he said one must be more resolute and prepare to stride forward, amending the mistakes of the past 74 years and aspiring to achieve what was deemed impossible.

On the ENPO demand for separate statehood, Konyak said since the elected members were aligned at the grassroot, the ENLU members have requested for the working papers and assured for a thorough examination, deliberation, consultation with the public for a referendum. He added that their action will be determined by the collective public decision.

Further he said as Mon District lies in an ideal geographical location, sharing borders with Myanmar, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, this area promises to be a potential tourist destination.

Keeping this in mind, Konyak informed that a helipad in Chen town was sanctioned in 2021 to strategically connect Myanmar, while PHC Chenmoho will be set up.

The Minister also advocated for adoption of new farming methods for sustainable growth without compromising the environment citing instances of the success of tea plantations in the Tizit valley which he said can be extended to Tapi, Wakching, Phomching, Aboi, and Moka, contributing not only to the economy but also creating employment opportunities.

He also mentioned that State Government’s decision to designate foothill areas under the Nagaland Special Development Zone (NSDZ) was a positive step and said cadastral survey of the land should be conducted, which will enable the citizens to secure bank loans and lease land to industrial companies for the establishment of industries and mega projects.

With the enactment of the Nagaland SARFAESI Act in the State Assembly on November 26, 2021 Konyak urged the youths to explore business opportunities, collaborate with investors and transition Nagaland from a salaried economy to a thriving business economy. He stated that the available resources provide a significant advantage and it was time to move beyond conventional white-collar jobs.

He maintained that Nagaland is safeguarded by Article 371(A) and the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, including the Inner Line Permit which are integral to Naga identity and urged for preserving the essence of Naga heritage for future generations.

On delimitation of constituencies, Konyak said the ensuing exercise might result in the reduction of assembly seats in Mon District and other districts with disproportionate population-to-assembly seat ratios. Therefore, he said it is imperative to accurately enumerate all citizens, aligning with the Aadhaar system, to ensure a correct population census.

Meanwhile, congratulating the KSU for achieving a milestone, the Minister urged people to draw inspiration from the wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm generated during the event, utilizing and executing strategies to elevate and enhance the way of life, society and district.

The Minister was accompanied by host of MLAs from Mon district while senior government officials, former KSU leaders, leaders of different organizations attended the programme.