Tag: Nagaland

Nagaland – TR Zeliang should show something on the ground

By Oken Jeet Sandham Ever since the TR Zeliang government came in a little over one month back, the overall administration and political environment continues to remain still unpredictable. No

By Oken Jeet Sandham
Ever since the TR Zeliang government came in a little over one month back, the overall administration and political environment continues to remain still unpredictable. No major programs and policies are initiated and the state government machineries are still visibly weak. Things are increasingly complex day by day and looking at the whole scenario, it appears that chief minister TR Zeliang is being bogged down and helpless in bridling his “jumbo size ministry.”
For the first time after becoming the chief minister of Nagaland, he admitted state’s pathetic financial position during the joint meeting of council of ministers, AHODs, HODs, on June 17 at secretariat conference hall, Kohima. Then after few days, he had given a statement to the press mentioning state’s estimated deficit at the tune of over Rs 1200 crore. This is not everything for the financial woes of the state, the loans taken by the state since 2003 to 2013 is Rs 5972.93 crore which in fact has exceeded the permitted limits of taking loans by the state. Although his remark that further appointment should be stopped was heard, it is extremely doubtful that such step would work.
It is true that then NDA prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had shown extra-ordinary care and concern for then Neiphiu Rio’s 1stDAN government which was, in fact, fortunate enough that it had not only got Rs 365 crore as one time grant to wipe out state’s accumulated deficit but also received another huge economic package of Rs 1053 crore. But such sops from the Vajpayee government in 2003 did not stop the Rio ministry from taking loans as stated above. However, one should not forget that then Rio’s 1st DAN government had enjoyed that entire unprecedented economic grant and package from then Vajpayee government was only because seven BJP MLAs were there in the ministry. In the 1st DAN government, the BJP was the second largest party with seven MLAs while NPF with nineteen MLAs.
The DAN-I government after enjoying all these economic facilities from then Vajpayee government had to continue for the next 10 years with the next Congress-led UPA governments at the Center. During this period, the Annual Plan Size of the state kept increasing till such time the state had to experience negative Plan Size in 2013. Only after this expected trend, state government started narrating different stories that the Center had done away with the funding pattern which it enjoyed till 1989. This is the same story Dr SC Jamir as chief minister used to tell us demanding the Center to revert back to the pre-1989 funding pattern.
The economic growth pushes nation’s wealth and also enhances its potential for reducing poverty and solving other social problems. However, such trend failed to make the human development progressed. Instead such economic growth was achieved at the cost of greater inequity, higher unemployment, weakened democracy, loss of cultural identity, or overconsumption of resources needed by future generations. As the links between economic growth and social and environmental issues are better understood, experts including economists tend to agree that this kind of growth is inevitably unsustainable—that is, it cannot continue along the same line for long, stated a recent document of the United Nations.
The United Nations explains that it is not difficult to point out which country is richer and which one is poorer. But indicators of wealth, which reflect the quantity of resources available to a society, provide no information about the allocation of those resources—for instance, about more or less equitable distribution of income among social groups, about the shares of resources used to provide free health and education services, and about the effects of production and consumption on people’s environment. Thus it is no wonder that states with similar average incomes can differ substantially when it comes to people’s quality of life: access to education and health care, employment opportunities, availability of clean air and safe drinking water, the threat of crime, and so on.
To be sustainable, economic growth must be constantly nourished by the fruits of human development such as improvements in workers’ knowledge and skills along with opportunities for their efficient use: more and better jobs, better conditions for new businesses to grow, and greater democracy at all levels of decision making.
Looking at the present state of affairs in Nagaland, the chief minister will have a very unpredictable journey and of course, one can’t blame him as he inherits the state of affairs. Yet he as chief minister is accountable to the state and one wonders how he is going to develop the state when he literally has nothing at hand.
On the other hand, we can still see the complaints and disappointments from the ruling NPF over the distribution of portfolios. Some legislators appointed as chairmen of various boards with Cabinet status do not have their offices as yet due to “jumbo size ministry.” Even some former ministers are still occupying ministerial bungalows which have already been allotted to new parliamentary secretary. Some parliamentary secretaries are still using their Boleros allotted by Assembly Secretariat.
Ironically, the initial jubilation that the powerful BJP-led NDA government at the Center will rescue the trouble-torn and cash-starved TR government in the state is fast dwindling. At the same time, after carefully studying the start-off of the Narendra Modi government at the Center, the scene becomes crystal clear that no bounty is likely to come hastily to the ever fragile TR government in Nagaland.
However, the recent merger of three NCP MLAs with the BJP in Nagaland has given some breather in the minds of the general publics for the fact that the Center is currently ruled by the BJP-led NDA. This masterstroke by the three NCP MLAs smacked other political detractors in the state as the move came at a time when the Center is ruled by the BJP-led NDA. However, it is still doubtful that the Center will come forward to lend their ears to the financial quagmire of the NPF-led DAN government.
Nagaland is a small state that depends for everything on the Center. The only way to convince the Central leadership is Zeliang has to start exercising frugality in his government and show some positive result on the ground. He also should ponder over his “jumbo size ministry” which simply defeats his point of argument seeking any kind of financial grant from the Center. He should exercise some kind of visible curtail of his jumbo size ministry, though they may be hard exercise. Then only will the Central government start contemplating to work out a grant for the state.

 

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/07/nagaland-tr-zeliang-should-show-something-on-the-ground/

Nagaland: NCP cannot suspend members of other political party – Dr TM Lotha

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Jun 26 (NEPS): The news of the formal merger of three NCP MLAs, Dr TM Lotha, Imtilemba Sangtam and Mmhonlumo Kikon, with the BJP in

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, Jun 26 (NEPS): The news of the formal merger of three NCP MLAs, Dr TM Lotha, Imtilemba Sangtam and Mmhonlumo Kikon, with the BJP in Nagaland, which was done on June 16, 2014, refuse to die down as the NCP National Party continues to mislead the general public on the “merger” with the BJP in Nagaland.

Reacting to a news item appeared in section of local dailies that “NCP National president Sarad Pawar, angered over the second such defection of NCP legislators in the State, has issued suspension orders against the three – ex-president Imtilemba Sangtam, Dr TM Lotha and Mmhonlumo Kikon,” Dr Lotha wondered as to how they would issue such orders on June 17, 2014 in the “post-merger” development.
“Because the three NCP MLAs including myself with our supporters have formally merged with the BJP in Nagaland on June 16, 2014 and all the constitutionally relevant papers to this effect have also been officially submitted to the Honourable Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly on the same day at 3:00 PM,” he asserted. He further termed as “ridiculous and misleading” the so-called “suspension orders” issued by the NCP National Party on June 17, 2014 in the post-merger of the three NCP MLAs.
“I want to further make it very clear that when the three MLAs formally merged with the BJP, they had become bonafide members of that party (BJP), and then the NCP president has no locus standi to suspend another national political party which does not belong to their party,” he said.
Dr Lotha, who was first BJP Home Minister in the DAN-I Ministry, categorically stated that there was nothing wrong for them as elected members of a political party to merge with another political party as such exercise is permitted as per the “10th Schedule of the Anti-Defection Law” of the Constitution of India.

Asked why he had to leave the NCP in Nagaland, Dr Lotha said there was no future for NCP in Nagaland and they could not afford remaining as NCP MLAs when there was no future. “So after thorough deliberations, we have resolved to formally merge along with our supporters with the BJP in Nagaland for the larger interest of the people of Nagaland and the BJP,” he stated.

Asked his comment on the delay of issuing any notification to their merger claim by the Speaker, he said after submission of all the relevant documents with regard to their three NCP MLAs’ merger claim with the BJP in Nagaland to him (Speaker) on June 16, 2014, they had also provided some more additional documents as desired by him. Besides that the former NCP Office Bearers led by Imtilemba Sangtam appeared before him on June 24, 2014 to validate their credentials. “I think the ball is in his court,” he added.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/06/nagaland-ncp-cannot-suspend-members-of-other-political-party-dr-tm-lotha/

Nagaland: Either maintain status quo or review portfolios – Zunheboto NPF

KOHIMA, June 25 (NEPS): The fragile TR Zeliang Ministry continues to face blitzkrieg from various NPF District Divisions for what they called his failure to maintain “status quo” of the

KOHIMA, June 25 (NEPS): The fragile TR Zeliang Ministry continues to face blitzkrieg from various NPF District Divisions for what they called his failure to maintain “status quo” of the previous ministry or “discrimination” in portfolio allocations to Zunheboto district, etc.
In a representation submitted to Chief Minister TR Zeliang, NPF Zunheboto Division, while demanding for reviewing of entire portfolios of NPF legislators of the district (Zunheboto) or maintaining status quo, disclosed that only the “sick and improvised portfolios” had been allocated to their legislators. “These portfolios cannot cater to the needs of the people of Zunheboto district,” the NPF Zunheboto Division stated.
Terming as “discrimination” the Chief Minister’s allocation of portfolios to the NPF legislators of the Zunheboto district, the representation further regretted that even the “portfolios of Home, Soil & Water Conservation, and Women Development” had been “snatched away.” Because of this development, schism of opinions had been created among the various party (NPF) loyal men and women in the district, it added.
The Zunheboto NPF Division demanded the Chief Minister either to maintain the “Status Quo” of the previous ministry or review and complete overhaul the entire process of portfolio allocations of the present ministry on or before the next Nagaland Assembly Session for “equal justification.”
It further warned that the entire NPF establishment of the Zunheboto District would remain as “Animated Suspension” if the Chief Minister failed to redress to their demands.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/06/nagaland-either-maintain-status-quo-or-review-portfolios-zunheboto-npf/

Nagaland : Official Notification of 3 NCP MLAs’ merger expected by Monday

KOHIMA, June 22 (NEPS): “An Official Notification” of the 3 Nagaland NCP MLAs’ merger with the BJP in Nagaland is expected by Monday and the Nagaland Assembly Office has already received the

KOHIMA, June 22 (NEPS): “An Official Notification” of the 3 Nagaland NCP MLAs’ merger with the BJP in Nagaland is expected by Monday and the Nagaland Assembly Office has already received the additional documents from the three and also merger acceptance letter from the BJP National Party.
Talking to NEPS over phone from Guwahati, Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Chotisuh Sazo, who is reaching State capital tomorrow, confirmed that his office had received additional documents from the 3 MLAs, Imtilemba Sangtam, Dr TM Lotha and Mmhonlumo Kikon and also a letter from National BJP Office of accepting the three MLAs’ merger with their party (BJP) in Nagaland.
Sazo hinted that he would examine the documents tomorrow. “Hopefully official notification of their merger with the BJP will be issued after I examine the documents,” he stated.
It may be mentioned that 3 NCP MLAs, Imtilemba Sangtam, Dr TM Lotha and Mmhonlumo Kikon, along with their supporters formally merged with the BJP on June 16. NCP MLA Khumo refused to join the merge. But the Speaker, however, explained that he had been examining their documents by consulting constitutional experts before issuing official acceptance from his office, besides he sought certain information from the 3 MLAs to furnish whether there was any resolution of the NCP National Political Party deciding to merge their party with the BJP or any authorization to the State Unit of NCP to take any decision in this regard,” the Speaker pointed out. “At the same time, whether there was any resolution of the BJP National Political Party accepting the merger of the NCP with BJP.”
Dr TM Lotha, MLA and Parliamentary Secretary, said the documents submitted to Speaker’s Office on June 16, 2014 for formal merger of 3 NCP MLAs with their supporters with BJP was done by fulfilling all the laid down rules of the 10th Schedule of the Anti-Defection Law.
“Yet the Speaker has sought more documents, we have already submitted to his office,” a State BJP party functionary said and further hoped that, “the Speaker will issue official notification for the merger as we have fulfilled all the laid down rules of the 10th Schedule of the Anti-Defection Law.”

 

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/06/nagaland-official-notification-of-3-ncp-mlas-merger-expected-by-monday/

Assam – Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped

Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped By Oken Jeet Sandham One of the most humiliating chapters in the history of Nagaland since Statehood would be, perhaps, its inability to

Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped
By Oken Jeet Sandham
One of the most humiliating chapters in the history of Nagaland since Statehood would be, perhaps, its inability to conduct elections on its own soil at Ladaigrah under Longlen District, bordering Assam, due to Assam Police’s deliberate threat and refusal to vacate a Nagaland school building wherein the polling was supposed to take place.
Everyone including the media in Nagaland were stunned when they saw the news along with a picture showing the Assam Police blocking the road preventing Nagaland polling officials from proceeding toward Ladaigarh to conduct polls for the Ladaigarh Polling Station No. 1 under 49 Tamlu A/C. Later in the day, it was declared that the polling at Ladaigarh could not be conducted due to Assam Police’s blocking of road leading to Ladaigarh and thus it (polling) had been adjourned.
In the past also, the Assam police did the same thing. But the previous elections, somehow a makeshift polling station was arranged nearby and allowed the voters to exercise their franchise. But this time, the situation was altogether different that not only murdering the rights of the voters to exercise their franchise but also not allowing the Nagaland polling officials from proceeding towards their polling station at Ladaigarh. But the saddest part was the state government’s inability to make any arrangement for the voters to exercise their franchise. If the Assam police refused Nagaland polling officials from proceeding to Ladaigarh, the Nagaland government could have airlifted those polling officials to conduct the polls there. But they did not.
It is unfortunate that when the state of Nagaland was created in the early 60s, the drawing of the new state boundary was not properly carried out. And once the new state was carved out from the existing state, the boundary had to be drawn and the necessary border machineries should be put into place. These unresolved border issues have really taken quite a toll on the lives of people on both sides.
It is only understandable that such border skirmishes would take place from time to time but they should not be misinterpreted as threatening to the aged old relationship between the two neighboring people. The people of the two states should not, at any cost, allow this issue lingering.
Most of the incidents including the Ladaigrah episode that have been taking place in the Assam-Nagaland border areas were something to do with longstanding unresolved inter-state border issues. Many issues were to do with paddy fields, farmlands, forests, etc. as per the past records. There were allegations from Nagaland border side that some people from across the border descended on their ancestral paddy fields, farmlands and even forcibly grabbed their lands with the help of Assam armed police as well as neutral forces. On the other side, there were also allegations that the Nagas from across the border encroached Assam’s lands or killed wild animals. And sometimes, clashes took place on either side while stepping into either side. Sometimes, such issues became hot debates even during assembly sessions of both the states. Yet, they were also resolved through series of dialogues at various levels.
Regrettably, large numbers of non-locals have been systematically occupying the long stretch of Assam border over the years and their numbers keep increasing leaps and bounds. And the people of Assam have little knowledge of what these non-locals have been doing on the state’s border areas.
To ease the border problem between the two states, the Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement as early as 1972 was made. This Agreement was meant to lessen border tension, while trying to find long lasting solution to the border issue.
The problem is this Interim Border Agreement was not implemented in toto. Rather it became a tool for the Assam government to strengthen their state forces along the border, while Nagaland relegated to a helpless position as they had to oblige to the terms of the agreement. According to information, Assam has 44 Assam armed police posts set up all along the Assam-Nagaland border in violation of the Interim Agreement; whereas there is reportedly 1 Nagaland armed police post all along the border. In other words, Nagaland was sincere if not over-sincere.
As per the Agreement, the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) should be placed under the neutral forces. Interestingly, such forces are placed again under the command of an IG of Assam police. And also Nagaland government temporarily allowed the Assam forest department for the management of the border reserved forests in the DAB. But due to the mismanagement by the Assam forest department, people from both sides started settling in the disputed reserved forest areas. Subsequently both the Assam and Nagaland governments had given recognition to those settlers.
Today, the problem is more complicated because the people living in the border areas of Assam are mostly non-locals but the Nagaland side becomes helpless as they do not know to whom they will talk. We have seen that some non-locals started talking the language of locals to restore aged old relationship between the Nagas and the Assamese. This interesting development might have confused some leaders in Nagaland. We started seeing some statements made by some responsible Naga Ministers saying they would not talk to “Adivasis” for resolving Assam-Nagaland border raw. But they failed to realize that by uttering this way, you would be paying attention to them instead of focusing on the right persons. It looks like you have been asked to talk to these people to resolve border raw with Assam. Let us be wiser and focus on the real issue plaguing both the states.
This so-called Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement 1972 is a blunder and it has become a bond of contention between the people of the two neighboring states. The first step to find solution to the chronic border issue is this “Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement” should be scrapped.
At the same time, both the states should immediately engage in serious business to frame new Border Agreement. Only then should they constitute an Assam-Nagaland Border Committee wherein persons with high social standing from both the states should be appointed as Members for a period of 5 years and their term can be extended on periodic basis. Their main job is to check the border irregularities and also examine the process of implementation of the Agreement.
It is still afresh in our memories about the infamous interstate clashes at Merapani in 1985 over border issue. No one thought the relationship would return as good as before. But the aged old relationship had fast returned. Because both sides can’t afford remaining un-neighborly as they will remain as neighbors till this beautiful God given earth exists.
The construction of “Foothill Road” on Nagaland border is very important for the development of the state. But this should not be misinterpreted as solution to the Assam-Nagaland border issue. The failure to find solution to the Assam-Nagaland border issue is not due to not constructing “Foothill Road.” Nevertheless, you can construct hundreds of new roads. It is your prerogative. But the Assam-Nagaland border raw can only be resolved provided both parties are sincere.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/assam-nagaland-interim-border-agreement-should-be-scrapped/

Can the Nagaland Education Minister remain silent?

By Oken Jeet Sandham Nagaland Governor Dr Ashwani Kumar always emphasizes on the “quality education” in the State and once cautioned, while speaking at the 20th Foundation Day of Nagaland

By Oken Jeet Sandham

Nagaland Governor Dr Ashwani Kumar always emphasizes on the “quality education” in the State and once cautioned, while speaking at the 20th Foundation Day of Nagaland University at Kohima last year, that “If we delay in taking corrective measures and do not immediately rework our curriculum and courses, we will be doing injustice to our children.” He called on academicians, politicians and civil societies to start providing quality education to the students of the state.

I think the Governor much have had hunch of the precarious educational conditions of the State. And by now he must have realized of the state of affairs in the State. It is really sad that the educational systems in most of the government schools in the State are in a complete mess. There have been reports that students have to appear their exams without seeing their textbooks. School uniforms are not provided on time or sometimes not at all. Mid-day meal crises have become normal and in a very comical manner, the previous Education Minister in DAN-II Government even admitted on the floor of Assembly that he had taken Rs 51, 00,000/- for use in attending functions as chief guest.

Of late, fresh complaints surfaced from Dimapur areas that the students and teachers from government Town Middle School, located in Half Nagarjan area are reported to have waited for government’s action to deliver the textbooks for the students, before their exams started. The shocking exposé is the Headmistress of the school admitted that all such unwanted thing had happened in spite of their constant submission of details regarding the required study materials to the Education Department. She could not even tell when they would get the textbooks. There were also cases from Dimapur areas that students did not have their school buildings and their teachers were compelled to take classes under trees.

Now, one can easily imagine what would be the fate of thousands of poor students in far flung areas of the State if students studying in the Dimapur areas did not receive their textbooks till now.

It is really painful to see the innocent and extremely underprivileged students going to their schools in far flung areas of the State. These poorest of the poor students have to walk kilometers in some villages to reach their schools, most of which do not have walls, toilet facilities, class rooms, etc. In many places, one or two teachers will run the schools, while in some places one or two students are found to be only students. But on paper, it claimed enrolments of students in Government schools in remote villages are increasing.

The fact is these poor students have been undergoing all kinds of man-made tragedies from the day they started going to schools. Large number of students in extremely remote and inaccessible villages may not even know where they are going and for what purpose because many of them did not see their textbooks throughout the academic sessions. They just appeared their final exams without seeing even once their textbooks, forget about not getting their school uniforms and mid-day meals. These are the stories used to float every now and then.

These students are the children of the poorest of the poor who live in the villages and hardly know beyond their village activities. The reality is that they are born in their village, live there and die there without even seeing their neighborhoods. Their village is their own world. It is this situation that the authority continues to indulge in various forms of corruptions and on rare occasions, student bodies from those affected areas aired their grievances that hundreds of students had to appear their final exams without seeing even once their textbooks.

On the other hand, there have been agitations by the teachers for quite some time affecting educational careers of thousands of students across the State. They said they had not received their salaries for the last four months and for which they had already submitted number of representations to the Government, besides various forms of agitations to release their pending salaries. The other day, these teachers took out a silent procession from old MLA Hostel Junction to Raj Bhavan and submitted an ultimatum to the Governor with a 15 days’ time to address their issue. These agitating teachers are Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) teachers.

SSA is Government of India’s flagship program for achievement of Universalization of Elementary Education (UEE) in a time bound manner, as mandated by 86th amendment to the Constitution of India making free and compulsory Education to the Children of 6-14 years age group, a Fundamental Right.

SSA is being implemented in partnership with State Governments to cover the entire country and address the needs of 192 million children in 1.1 million habitations.

The program seeks to open new schools in those habitations which do not have schooling facilities and strengthen existing school infrastructure through provision of additional class rooms, toilets, drinking water, maintenance grant and school improvement grants.

Existing schools with inadequate teacher strength are provided with additional teachers, while the capacity of existing teachers is being strengthened by extensive training, grants for developing teaching-learning materials and strengthening of the academic support structure at a cluster, block and district level.

SSA seeks to provide quality elementary education including life skills. SSA has a special focus on girl’s education and children with special needs. SSA also seeks to provide computer education to bridge the digital divide.

Under SSA, the Nagaland State has received an amount of Rs 21665.89 lakhs (Rupees two hundred sixteen crore sixty five lakh eighty nine thousand) from the Government of India since 2008. The current SSA teachers in Nagaland are part of this scheme and their salaries should not be any problem. Because these SSA teachers’ issue has got nothing to do with the State budget. It does not at all affect the State’s exchequer.

Now the pertinent questions are how many students benefited from this SSA scheme in the State? And also why couldn’t students get their textbooks, and thereby forcing them to appear their exams without seeing once their textbooks. How many school buildings have been constructed under SSA in the State?

Why has the concerned department remained silent while educational systems in most of the government schools have been deteriorating day by day? Why couldn’t the department come up with some ideas as to how the issue could be solved? What is the Minister in-charge of School Education doing? Is he thinking to do something to mitigate the problems or has he exhausted any means to solve the problem? Can he remain silent?

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/can-the-nagaland-education-minister-remain-silent/

Impact of social media while our elections & politics groping in the dark

By Oken Jeet Sandham Literally, every person on the street has Facebook Account. In other countries and even in major Indian cities, whether cobbler or rickshaw puller or barber or

By Oken Jeet Sandham
Literally, every person on the street has Facebook Account. In other countries and even in major Indian cities, whether cobbler or rickshaw puller or barber or vegetable vender, they mostly have social media accounts, particularly Facebook. Almost every restaurant – whether small or big – has free Internet facilities through Wi-Fi. Everyone coming to the restaurants is normally seen enjoying free Internet facilities through the Wi-Fi services, while enjoying various cuisines. The whole world is virtually at their fingertips.
Over 80% of the world leaders now have their own social media accounts, particularly Facebook. Starting from mere local politicians to Prime Ministers and Presidents, they all have owned their own social media sites. Many Queens and Kings also have joined social media. Most of them used Facebook extensively to promote their missions and charitable works, while those politicians would do their best to propagate their political and social agendas. Millions of Facebook users will also systematically use the social media sites (Facebook) to promote their commercial ventures. Various professionals will use Facebook to promote their professional programs. To a great extent, their purposes are served.
Since the advent of Facebook, the communities of the world are more connected than ever before. The boundaries have virtually disappeared and the world communities become one family. The people don’t wait any important information of any candidates these days; they can easily get it through their Facebook sites. Besides this, the general publics can directly put their questions in their social media sites and even join debates in it.
We have seen how the last American Presidential elections were fought through various social media sites. Barack Obama and his Republican rivals Senator John McCain and later with Mitt Romney virtually had their presidential campaigns organized in the Facebook and it had largely worked to capture the mood of the voters who were also users of Facebook and other social media sites.
The last American Presidential elections had shown to the world that no one could any longer fight without Facebook and other Social media machines. After the American elections were over, numbers of Facebook and other social media users were seen a quantum jump and it still keeps surging.
Every Prime Minister or President of the world would have their Facebook with millions following them. They virtually pitted against each other for their political and electoral battles. They could systematically advance to many areas. Every activity of any Prime Minister or the main Opposition Leader will be instantly uploaded in their Facebook before it goes to any other online publications, forget about Print Media that will come next day only.
In India, we have now witnessed unprecedented use of Facebook and Twitter, etc. during this time’s upcoming 16th Indian Lok Sabha elections by contending candidates and their political parties. They have been constantly uploading news of election campaigns in their respective social media sites. According to report, the social media, particularly Facebook will play a major role in 2014 elections. It said out of 534 constituencies, 160 were identified as High impact zones, 67 were identified as Medium impact zones while the rest were classified as Low impact zones.
It further disclosed that they were categorized on the basis of internet and Facebook users in that particular constituency. On basis of data collected from past year and equating it with current stats, it concluded that the High impact zones will be the major game changer in 2014 elections.
Nadrendra Modi, the BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate has millions of Facebook and Twitter followers. His electioneering news is constantly uploaded in his and his BJP’s Facebook and Twitter sites. Congress Star Campaigner Rahul Gandhi also equally uses the services of the Facebook and Twitter for propagating his electioneering campaigns, while Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh too can’t help but depending on social media like Facebook to put his political agendas and developments, etc.
Though he projected himself very simple, Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister and leader of AAP, couldn’t progress without depending on social media. He had to convey his thought, ideas and election campaigns through social media in many cases. In fact, the social media plays integral, both to the candidates and the public.
In India, every political party has their social media sites today. They too have used benefits of the sites to the fullest possible manner to advance their political agendas. Massive political propaganda has been created through Facebook and Twitter by every political party and their leader to project that they are the savior of the country. If closely monitored, it appears that they are unlikely to play politics without the services of Facebook and Twitter. What a revolution indeed.
Even in the Region, State Units of various National Political Parties like the BJP, Congress, etc. have opened their own social media sites and played their own games to only strengthen their propaganda machine.
Every media house does have their own various social media sites, so do all the media persons. In fact, some of the national media houses constantly upload every new development in their news portals as well as their Facebook and Twitter. These have happened, over and above their print editions. Even the electronic media like TV Channels, in spite of their live telecast of each and every development, do constantly upload their news in their Facebook and Twitter.
In Nagaland too, number of social media users are seen increasing leaps and bound. There are heated debates taking place on various issues facing them in their social media sites. Facebook has given space for each and every person to share their thoughts, ideas and plights, etc.
Hundreds of users throw their questions in the Facebook daily or hourly with regard to the current Lok Sabha elections as well as Naga political issue. It is interesting to note that while AICC Vice President Rahul Gandhi was addressing a mammoth election rally at Kohima Local Ground on March 27, news of his address was being uploaded in Facebook and Twitter simultaneously. How advance the Social Media of today is? In fact, immediate political debates generated when he raised the controversial points with regard to Naga political issue where he said, “I will not give any promise as your Chief Minister who said he would bring solution to the Naga issue within three months if he was voted to power.”
Before NPF formally lodged its complaint, the actual debates were over within few hours as soon as it was uploaded in the Facebook and Twitter. It went viral.
It is regretted that NPF and NPCC have just opened their Facebook accounts with hardly any following them. Hardly election campaign news is seen uploading in their sites. They should engage their media personnel to work for their social media sites. Nagaland BJP Unit has, however, been maintaining their Facebook site well.
NPF candidate Neiphiu Rio, who is also DAN consensus candidate, has nearly 500 followers, while Congress Candidate KV Pusa’s seemed to have just been opened recently with less than 100 followers. Some of their party functionaries, of course, have their social media accounts opened. This development clearly shows that they are yet to know the value of social media.
Looking at the present scenario, Nagaland political activities are yet to catch up the social media importance. They are still in the dark while others are busy uploading their activities, yet they do not know what is happening in Facebook with their stories. Here is a wakeup call for our political leaders to join the Facebook or else they will be left out.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/04/impact-of-social-media-while-our-elections-politics-groping-in-the-dark/

Chakhesang tribe’s traditional fire making method

“Traditional Fire Making Method” of the Chakhesang tribe is very unique and popular. This Chakhesang boy won in the “Traditional Fire Making Competitions” held during the 34th Cultural Day of the Model Village Yorubami Youth Association (MVYYA) held at Yoruba … Continue reading →

“Traditional Fire Making Method” of the Chakhesang tribe is very unique and popular. This Chakhesang boy won in the “Traditional Fire Making Competitions” held during the 34th Cultural Day of the Model Village Yorubami Youth Association (MVYYA) held at Yoruba Public Ground under Nagaland’s Phek District on January 9, 2014. He took nearly 20 seconds to produce fire through the traditional fire making method.

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Nagaland Speaker urges youth for work culture, respect for elders

YORUBA (Phek), Jan 9 (NEPS): Speaker of Nagaland Assembly Chotisuh Sazo called upon the youth to maintain and preserve their age old cultures and traditions and also continue to maintain their respects for the elders as their elders had been … Continue reading →

YORUBA (Phek), Jan 9 (NEPS): Speaker of Nagaland Assembly Chotisuh Sazo called upon the youth to maintain and preserve their age old cultures and traditions and also continue to maintain their respects for the elders as their elders had been maintaining from generations to generations.
Nagaland Assembly Speaker Chotisuh Sazo addressing on the occasion of the 34th Cultural Day that coincides with the Sukrunye (premier festival of the Chekhesangs) organized by the Model Village Yorubami Youth Association (MVYYA) at the Yorubami Public Ground January 9, 2014. (NEPS Photo)

Nagaland Assembly Speaker Chotisuh Sazo addressing on the occasion of the 34th Cultural Day that coincides with the Sukrunye (premier festival of the Chekhesangs) organized by the Model Village Yorubami Youth Association (MVYYA) at the Yorubami Public Ground January 9, 2014. (NEPS Photo)

He was speaking as Chief Guest on the occasion of the 34th Cultural Day that coincides with the Sukrunye (premier festival of the Chekhesangs) organized by the Model Village Yorubami Youth Association (MVYYA) here at the Yorubami Public Ground Wednesday. The Chief Guest said when they cared and respected for their elders, God would shower blessings upon them.
Sazo also expressed worry of the lack of work cultures among the present day youth who mostly preferred easy life without laboring which, he described was a dangerous trend and would not auger well for the future of their generations. He emphatically urged the people particularly the youth to develop the work culture that would be the only self-reliance for them in future.
While appreciating the Members of the MVYYA for organizing the program without indulging in any sort of fund drive like “lottery, buffet program etc, which are now a common feature today,” the Speaker said this way they had shown to others about their work culture values and self-reliance.
Paying rich tribute to former Chief Minister late Vamuzo who hails from this village (Yoruba), Sazo said he (Vamuzo) was visionary leader and pioneer of many developmental models in the village.
He also appreciated the organizers for their warm receptions given to him and his entourages.
Earlier in his welcome address, President MVYYA Vezota Veswuh said in the present global village, they had to make rapid progress without giving up their true “tradition, culture, values and customs.” He further stressed the importance of giving more emphasis on their “customs and traditional activities.”
Folk dance, folk tune, duet and traditional fire making competitions were the salient features dominating the “34thCultural Day and the Sukrunye” today which was attended by large number of villagers from Yoruba and neighboring villages, besides CPO President, prominent social workers from various Chakhesang villages.
Sazo along with Chitsoru Vasa enthralled the crowd by their duet folk song.
The function was chaired by YSU President, while the greeting was given by Chairman, Village Council Yoruba.

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Governor urges Nagaland churches to emulate Mizoram Churches in fighting corruption

KOHIMA, Jan 3 (NEPS): Nagaland Governor Dr Ashwani Kumar warned the dangers of corruption that had been plaguing the society and pointed out that it simply could not be rooted out without serious reformation from home, schools, colleges and societies. … Continue reading →

KOHIMA, Jan 3 (NEPS): Nagaland Governor Dr Ashwani Kumar warned the dangers of corruption that had been plaguing the society and pointed out that it simply could not be rooted out without serious reformation from home, schools, colleges and societies.
He said this while releasing a book titled, “A Walk to Emmaus – A Journey of Attitudinal Change” written by Jonas Yanthan here on Friday at Raj Bhavan, Kohima. He said the “solution to corruption lies with the parents, teachers and societies.” The children should be first given human values by their parents in their respective homes, while ethics and values should be further taught in schools, colleges and universities, the Governor explained and further said once they were fully given these values and ethics, they would be able to fight various corrupt ways in the societies. Finally they would be the prime movers in the journey to eradicate this dreaded menace, he added.
Governor of Nagaland Dr Ashwani Kumar releasing a book, “A Walk to Emmaus - A Journey of Attitudinal Change” written by Jonas Yanthan at Raj Bhavan, Kohima on January 3, 2014. Lady wife of the Governor and author, Jonas Yanthan (extreme right) were also seen in the picture. (Left) Leaders of lotha Hoho and sections of media attending the function. (Oken Jeet Sandham Photo)

Governor of Nagaland Dr Ashwani Kumar releasing a book, “A Walk to Emmaus – A Journey of Attitudinal Change” written by Jonas Yanthan at Raj Bhavan, Kohima on January 3, 2014. Lady wife of the Governor and author, Jonas Yanthan (extreme right) were also seen in the picture. (Left) Leaders of lotha Hoho and sections of media attending the function. (Oken Jeet Sandham Photo)

Recalling as to how the churches in Mizoram played their roles in the recently concluded state elections in checking corruptions. The churches in Mizoram put up boards in villages with various guidelines to be observed by the candidates and later it was reported that there were least election related expenditures in Mizoram, he added.
Dr Kumar said their churches in Nagaland too could emulate Mizoram churches and expressed the hope that they would be able to do Mirozam way in the coming elections in the State.
The Governor, while lauding Yanthan for writing the book, “A Walk to Emmaus – A Journey of Attitudinal Change,” wished more new books to come in future not only by the author but also other local authors. He also said he was the first to receive the book and enjoyed reading.
Earlier, the author gave a brief background of the book. “We need a change of attitude and that’s why everyone talks about it with the hope of making our lives better but the desired change is not forthcoming,” he said explaining that the reason for that was “because attitudinal change cannot come about unless we begin talking to the minds of the people since corruption is an attitude.”
Stating that the book was an attempt to understand the Bible critically as they drew primarily from it, Yanthan narrated that for such thing a science called hermeneutics was employed to understand the scriptural language, reality of life and what language was as a mode of communication.
He further expressed that the focal objective of the book was a genuine though humble in its effort to bring about the much needed attitudinal change. The lady wife of the Governor also attended the occasion, besides Lotha Hoho leaders, members of the Press and family members of the author.

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The political uncertainty and fate of Naga political issue!

The outcome of the assembly elections in five states—Rajasthan, MP, Delhi, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram—was something frightening.  The BJP has got absolute majorities in three States while in Delhi it has faced short of 4 to form the Government. In Mizoram, … Continue reading →

The outcome of the assembly elections in five states—Rajasthan, MP, Delhi, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram—was something frightening.  The BJP has got absolute majorities in three States while in Delhi it has faced short of 4 to form the Government. In Mizoram, the Congress retained. Delhi was not only the stronghold of the Congress but also the face of the country. Delhi’s three-time powerful Congress Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit finally became the victim of the strong anti-Congress wave that had swept across the country.
However, the outcome of Delhi Assembly election has thrown uncertain political future as the single largest BJP is not prepared to stake claim to form the next Government. It has already declared that it preferred to sit in Opposition. The AAP, which decimated the Congress came second with 28 seats, said it would neither lend support to any party nor willing to seek support from any. It also said to sit in Opposition. The scenario in Delhi is increasingly clear that it may be placed under President’s Rule.
The AAP that fought on the “pro-people” and “anti-corruption” poll plank feels that it will be suicidal to form Government in Delhi by taking support either from the BJP or the Congress. But the fact is if the PR is imposed in Delhi and holding of fresh election announced, the BJP may increase its tally from the present 32 to nearly 40, while AAP may hang around the same strength they have now. Because it is an anti-Congress wave that has been sweeping across and not the anti-BJP wave. Yet, it is far more honorable for the AAP to face fresh election as it will enhance its political credibility in the eyes of the country.
The outcome of these assembly elections will definitely have major impact on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections due early next year. This country has witnessed the activities of the Congress-led UPA Government led by Dr Singh at the Center for the last one decade. The common men across the length and breadth of the country are not fully convinced by his leadership, though he is generally considered as “Clean.” But he seemed lacking political will and courage on many occasions and not decisive. That affected his image considerably and became most unpopular Prime Minister of the country.
Scandals after scandals involving high profile and powerful Ministers in his Government had damaged his political standing and the very so-called “Clean tag” has lost its relevance along the way. Some of his Ministers landed in jails over the years.
The price rise issue is also one of the main factors to the Congress electoral debacle this time but at the same time, the rise of vociferous Narendra Modi as a national leader and making him the Prime Ministerial candidate of the main Opposition BJP also became spoilsports to the Congress in many parts of the country.
Today’s youth are more well-informed, educated, well-versed and they are not interested to live any more on the hollowness and rhetoric of politicians. They have clearly seen the weakness of their Prime Minister on many issues.
On the other hand, they have seen the kind of leadership in Modi who knows how to keep today’s youth close-knitted with his political strategies, visions and plans for the future of the country. Besides, they see in Modi that he can take the country forward. At the same time, the Western countries as well as many powerful countries started appreciating his performances as Chief Minister in Gujarat. This man is thoroughly prepared for the game and most of the Congress veterans in the country are seen finding difficulties to face him.  All these factors have given political edge to him.
Modi even knows the importance of the northeastern region and its people who have also been victims of a weak leadership of the country. They would also like to see someone who can really take care of their wellbeing. One should also realize that youth of the region are equally concerned for their future. In many areas, the region is far behind than many parts of the country. We are completing 66 years of Independence and living in 21st Century. They also want to enjoy like others.
When such a very unpredictable political scenario fast emerges, what do we think of the ongoing political dialogues between the leaders of the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India? It has been 16 years since the signing of the ceasefire agreement between them and more than 60 rounds of political talks have already been held and both sides have really narrowed down their differences over the years. They could manage to remove political glitches. This is, without doubt, a big achievement on their parts.
Out of the 16 years of peace process, the present Congress-led UPA Government has been dealing with the Naga underground leaders for the last almost 10 years. Dr Singh used to say that the solution to the protracted Naga issue would be arrived at during his tenure. It is, certainly, a welcome gesture. But in reality, it is easier said than done for the fact that the nature of the process is political and when political stability is not there, no political talks can be safely held whatever the case may be. And the political instability in the Congress-led UPA increases while their allies are heaping all the blames of the present political crises on the weak leadership meaning the Prime Minister of the country.
Yet, one should keep in mind that the present UPA Government is a coalition one and the majority Congress alone cannot take any political decision as such on the Naga issue without the consent of their allies. Besides, the issue needs debating on the floor of the Parliament while seeking opinions of the respective Chief Ministers of the region. Because of this complicated process, a strong political will with a stable Government at the Center is the need of the hour.
On the other hand, present Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has been running the affairs of the State since 2003 after defeating the powerful Congress regime of Dr SC Jamir. It has been now almost 11 years that he has been at the helms of affairs of the State as the peace process between the Naga underground leaders and the Government of India completes 16 years. But he kept saying that they were not a party to talks and acting only as “facilitator” to the process. Rio also used to say that talks were going in the right direction but not being able to share any stages of the talks. Many also described Prime Minister Dr Singh as “sincere” to the Naga issue. Yet none of them had courage to say the “Timeframe” of the settlement to the issue. Everyone is still kept in the dark of the issue even after 16 years of the process. This vague style of development is also largely responsible to destroying the “confidence” of the masses.
I think this is ridiculous. Something is wrong somewhere. One should not run politics like this at the cost of finding a political solution. If you cannot push the process further, tell to the people that we cannot. It appears that no responsibilities are there with the leaders. Sometimes, they talked big things even to the extent of international politics. They seemed to have suffered from “I-know-everything syndrome.”
Now, in all probability nothing is going to happen to the Naga issue during Dr Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister of this great nation. We have to keep our fingers crossed till such time when new guards take over to run the country.

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Nagaland State completes 50 years without a Medical or Engineering or Technical College

In few hours from now, the State is going to witness the historic celebration of the 50th year of Nagaland Statehood with the President of India Pranab Mukherjee inaugurating it. The State of Nagaland was formally inaugurated by the 2nd … Continue reading →

In few hours from now, the State is going to witness the historic celebration of the 50th year of Nagaland Statehood with the President of India Pranab Mukherjee inaugurating it. The State of Nagaland was formally inaugurated by the 2nd President of India Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan as the 16th State of the Indian Union on the 1st of December, 1963 at the Kohima Local Ground.
While commemorating this “Historic Event” on 1st of December, 2013 in the State, one cannot help but fondly remembers those who made the Statehood happened 50 years ago. These Naga leaders who had formed the Naga People’s Convention (NPC) in late 50s had sacrificed, toiled and even risked their precious lives during that turbulent period and finally could succeed to convince the Union Government under the first Prime Minister Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru to create a separate State of Naga people on the basis of a “16-Point Memorandum” which finally became the “16-Point Agreement.” This “Agreement” was signed between the Government of India and the NPC in 1960 and that led finally to the formation of the State of Nagaland in 1963.

The State was born out of “Political Agreement” between the Government of India and the NPC and some of the salient features of this “Agreement” are the incorporation of certain points such as — 1. Religious and social practices of the Nagas, 2. Naga customary laws and procedures, 3. Administration of civil and criminal justice involving Naga customary laws and 4. Ownership and transfer of land and its resources— in the Article 371 (A) of the Constitution. This makes the State and its people “unique.”

Some of the signatories of the “16-Point Agreement” became Chief Ministers in the post-Statehood periods. They were late P Shilu Ao, late JB Jasokie and Dr SC Jamir. Vizol was one of the signatories in the 16-Point Memorandum but was not a signatory when the “16-Point Agreement” was inked between the Government of India and the NPC. It is so poignant at this junction to say that Dr SC Jamir is still alive and keeping well. He is presently Governor of Odisha. He will have a lot to tell the moving history of the pre and post-Statehood eras.

It is also equally emotional to note that seven who served as Members of the Interim Body of Nagaland are still alive. It is really a momentous for these grand Naga leaders and they should be well-honored.

50 years is a long journey in human history. The State has produced nine Chief Ministers since 1964 till date (this is not included in the Chief Ministers’ multiple tenures). They are late P Shillu Ao, late TN Angami, late Dr Hokishe Sema, late Vizol, late JB Jasokie, Dr SC Jamir, KL Chishi, late Vamuzo, and Neiphiu Rio. It may be mentioned that late Dr Hokishe Sema was the first Naga who became Governor of Himachal Pradesh from 1983 to 1986. They were all “unique” leaders in their times and also many of those who served in the Interim Body Period became successful politicians in later part of their lives. They all are now “history.”

This writer was privileged to have interviewed late Dr Hokishe Sema, late JB Jasokie, late Vizol and late Vamuzo while they were alive. These leaders had visions for the Nagas. They had done their parts in shaping the destiny of the Nagas.

While remembering these leaders, we can flash back a little bit of what the State was in 1963. The population of the newly created Nagaland State was 3.69 lakh. Literacy was at the nadir with little over sixty thousand Nagas were literate. Not a single college was there when the State was created, except two Government High Schools. Only 11 Government Middle Schools and 180 Government Primary Schools were there. There were only two civil hospitals and smaller hospitals and dispensaries in the whole of the newly created State of Nagaland in 1963. Road communication was horrible as blacked-topped roads totaling about 168 kilometers at that point of time. Basic necessities such as water supply, electricity, were nil.

Today, the State has about one lakh Government employees in a population of nearly two millions. It has now 28 Government Higher Secondary schools, 273 Government High Schools, 878 Government Middle Schools and 1794 Government Primary Schools. On top it, nearly 900 private schools are there. The State’s road stretch altogether is now 10176 kilometers. Today the State is proud of having 58 Colleges when it did not have even a single College in 1963. In Health Sectors too, the State has progressed immensely. There are many departments now. The State has progressed a lot in many areas in the last 50 years and successive Government under various Chief Ministers had contributed their shares in shaping the State. It is a process and it has to go on and there is no limit in the journey of development and progression.

While saying so, some very pertinent issues remain critical till today and these need paying immediate attention. That unlike other states, the State of Nagaland does not have any source on its own to generate income and it had to depend solely on the Center for the overall wellbeing of the State. Earlier the State had two Mills namely Sugar Mill and Paper Mill. Unfortunately, both of these Mills miserably failed in spite of several attempts to revive by the successive Governments in the State. Somehow, a ray of hope has come this time, when the Center has approved the revival of the sick Paper Mill at Tuli under Mokokchung district with the releasing of Rs 100 crore as first installment.

We can write many things of what had happen in Nagaland in the last 50 years but it is not possible to narrate stories of 50 years in just 1000 words or so. But the fact is many things are yet to be done. Today’s Naga youth are more informed, educated and well-versed. They cannot be easily fooled by some dramatic gestures of politicians. They know where they are headed to.

The State has the highest literacy in the country, but the “employable factors” used to come in from time to time. Our educational systems are not up to the mark. The saddest part is the State does not have even a single Engineering College or a single Medical College or a single Technical College ever after 50 years of its Statehood. And we are expecting our educated youth to compete with their counterparts who have been brought up and educated in an environment of modern educational facilities.

This writer has been persistently highlighting about the pathetic condition of the State particularly with regard to not having any single Medical College or Engineering College or Technical College even to the extent of discussing the matters with various union Ministers and high profile officials of the Center. They listened to and even sometimes made emotional apologies that the State of Nagaland underwent in such a way without such facilities till date. They also assured that they would look into the matters and see that things were happening on the ground. We should also admit at the same time that the State seemed lacking political will as well as bureaucratic bargaining skills. Nevertheless, the President while inaugurating the “Golden Jubilee Celebration” of the Nagaland Statehood should think for a moment whether it is right that the people of Nagaland deserve this kind of treatment even after 50 years of Statehood which they got through series of “political negotiations and bloodsheds.”

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President fails to mention leaders who made Nagaland State happened

It is interesting to note that when the President Pranab Mukherjee spoke on the occasion of the historic celebration of the “50th Anniversary of the Nagaland Statehood” at Kisama on December 1, 2013, he did not mention even a single leader … Continue reading →

It is interesting to note that when the President Pranab Mukherjee spoke on the occasion of the historic celebration of the “50th Anniversary of the Nagaland Statehood” at Kisama on December 1, 2013, he did not mention even a single leader of the then Naga People’s Convention (NPC). Dr SC Jamir, ex-Nagaland Chief Minister and present Governor of Odisha, the only living person amongst those who signed the “16-Point Agreement of 1960 with the Government of India” was also there at the rostrum while President Mukherjee delivered his speech.  The present Nagaland State came into being after “16-Point Agreement” was signed between the leaders of the NPC and the Government of India in 1960.
The Nagaland Statehood was formally inaugurated as the 16th State of the Indian Union by 2nd President of India Dr S Radhakrishnan on 1st of December, 1963 at the Kohima Local Ground.
How poignant it was when Dr Jamir, the only living person of the signatories of the “16-Point Agreement,” was sharing dais with the President to celebrate the “50th Year of Nagaland Statehood.” But the President has even failed to mention that he was sharing dais with a man who was one of the architects and the founding fathers of the Nagaland State.
Can anyone imagine what would be if the President of India or the Prime Minister fails to mention names of the founding fathers of “India” when they deliver speeches on the occasion of “India’s Anniversaries.” It would only demean the democratic ideology of a republic country like ours.
On February 18, 1961 an Interim Body of 42 members was constituted. This was to function as the de-facto legislature. It included a five-member Executive Council headed by a Chief Executive Councilor. This functioned as de-facto Council of Ministers. Dr. Imkongliba Ao, who was the first Chairman of the Naga People’s Convention, was appointed the first Chairman of the Interim Body. Mr. P. Shilo was appointed the Chief Executive Councilor and eventually became the first Chief Minister of Nagaland. On August 21, 1962 the then Prime Minister Pandit Nehru introduced a Bill in the Parliament for the formation of Nagaland as a full-fledged State. The Act provides for the formulation of the State of Nagaland as the 16th State in the Indian Union, and on December 1, 1963, President Dr. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the State of Nagaland. The late Mr. Vishnu Sahay became the first Governor of Nagaland.
The unveiling of the monolith and the releasing of the Commemorative Stamp of Nagaland by the President during the occasion were, however, significant. Dr Jamir’s book- “Nagaland 50 Years and Beyond”- released by him might have lot of stories of how the State came into being under the leaderships of the then NPC, though I am yet to read it. The Coffee Table Book on the 50th Anniversary of Statehood released by State Governor Dr Ashwani Kumar had the interesting historical chapters of Nagaland.
Meanwhile it was remarkable to witness the “Photo Exhibition” by the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Nagaland, at the Conference Hall of the Ura Hotel, near Red Cross Complex, Kohima. These photos are rare collections depicting how the Naga people had a long journey to come to this modern world. They had displayed the priceless photographs of pre- and post-Nagaland Statehood eras along with various distinguished leaders of the Republic of India. It was really touching to seeing these pictures. The exhibition will continue till 10th of this month and one must see it.
On 20th August, 1961, Dr. Ao was shot and wounded at Mokokchung by an underground gunman while he was on his way home from his pharmacy. He was taken to the Army Hospital but succumbed to his injuries on 22nd August 1961. Most of these leaders sacrificed, toiled and even risked their precious lives while striving for the cause, though the Naga political issue remained unresolved.
Although the talks between the Naga underground leaders and the Government of India are still going on to find solution, the leaders of NPC were architects and founding fathers of the Nagaland State and it would be only befitting to mention their names on such occasion by the President of India.

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Speaker Sazo leads 6-Member NLFA Team & 2 Officials to International AIDS Congress at Bangkok

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Nov 16 (NEPS): A team of Nagaland Legislature Forum for AIDS (NLFA) led by Assembly Speaker Chotisuh Sazo has left Nagaland today to attend the “11th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific … Continue reading →

By Oken Jeet Sandham
KOHIMA, Nov 16 (NEPS): A team of Nagaland Legislature Forum for AIDS (NLFA) led by Assembly Speaker Chotisuh Sazo has left Nagaland today to attend the “11th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP)” to be held from November 11 to 22, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand.
The NLFA Team Members are Chotisuh Sazo, Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) and Convener, NLFA, Er Levi Rengma, Deputy Speaker, NLA, Mmholumo Kikon, MLA, Ameba Yaden, MLA, Toyang Chang, MLA and Khekaho Assumi, MLA and also Dr Vinito Chishi, State Consultant on NLFA and Miss Hukatoli, an Official of the NLFA.
Mmholumo Kikon, who is currently at Hong Kong, will fly to Bangkok and join the Team tomorrow at Bangkok.
Talking to NEPS at Dimapur Airport before leaving for Bangkok via Kolkata, Chotiush Sazo, the Team Leader, said he would more emphasize on the importance of keeping strict vigil on the porous International border to Nagaland State as such HIV/AIDS also allegedly came to their side from across the International border of Myanmar. “We should adopt some kind of mechanism as to how we can prevent spreading of HIV/AIDS from across the International border,” he said disclosing that the State (Nagaland) has 250 kilometers bordering with Myanmar. “I am going to draw attention of the world leaders who are attending in this very important 11th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific at Bangkok,” he added.
(From left) Khekaho Assumi, MLA, Er Levi Rengma, Deputy Speaker, NLA, Chotisuh Sazo, Speaker, NLA, Ameba Yaden, MLA, Toyang Chang, MLA, Dr Vinito Chishi, State Consultant on NLFA and Miss Hukatoli, Official of NLFA before leaving for Bangkok at Dimapur Airport on Vovember 16, 2013. NEPS Photo

(From left) Khekaho Assumi, MLA, Er Levi Rengma, Deputy Speaker, NLA, Chotisuh Sazo, Speaker, NLA, Ameba Yaden, MLA, Toyang Chang, MLA, Dr Vinito Chishi, State Consultant on NLFA and Miss Hukatoli, Official of NLFA before leaving for Bangkok at Dimapur Airport on Vovember 16, 2013. NEPS Photo

“I personally believe that once a mechanism is drawn up to check cross border activities in those porous areas, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS will reduce considerably,” he pointed out.
The Nagaland Speaker also stated that he would draw the attention of the world leader at Bangkok Congress to seriously ponder over the dangerous issues of Hepatitis B because this “menace” was always associated with HIV patients. “We have to find ways to solve this area too,” he added.
Dr Vinito Chishi, State Consultant on NLFA, while talking to NEPS here at the Dimapur Airport, expressed the hope that attending such International Congress on AIDS by their legislators at Bangkok would immensely give fruitful education to “our legislators.”

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Opposition Congress to boycott “State Golden Jubilee Celebration”

Opposition Congress to boycott “State Golden Jubilee Celebration” if CM fails to remove Imchen from Council of Ministers By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Nov 13 (NEPS): In an unprecedented move that will have far reaching consequences in the present Neihpiu … Continue reading →

Opposition Congress to boycott “State Golden Jubilee Celebration” if CM fails to remove Imchen from Council of Ministers

By Oken Jeet Sandham
KOHIMA, Nov 13 (NEPS): In an unprecedented move that will have far reaching consequences in the present Neihpiu Rio Government in Nagaland, the main Opposition Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) warned that it would launch a mass agitation even to the extent of “boycotting the 50th Anniversary celebrations of (Nagaland) Statehood” if chargesheeted State Cabinet Minister Imkong L Imchen was not removed from the Council of Ministers within fortnight.In a representation to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio here on Wednesday, the main opposition NPCC strongly demanded the removal of Imkong L Imchen, Medical Minister, from the Council of Ministers since he had already been “chargesheeted” by the Wokha Police for his “criminal conduct during the recently concluded state assembly elections.”
“Caught red handed with crores of unaccounted money, illegal weapons and liquor in his possession at Wokha, enough prima facie evidences are available against the Minister and for which his continuance in the Cabinet has become untenable until he is proved innocent in the court of law,” said the representation.
Stating that Imchen lost all moral authority to cling on to the ministerial chair, the NPCC demanded for his immediate removal from the Cabinet so that the entire trial hearing process did not get influenced by his position as minister.
It further warned that it would launch a mass agitation even to the extent of boycotting the “50th Anniversary celebrations of (Nagaland) statehood” if the Chief Minister failed to remove him from his Council of Minister within fortnight. “(Because) it will not tolerate a criminally tainted person masquerading as leader to make a mockery of law and hold the state to ransom,” it asserted.Meanwhile, the NPCC also sought the intervention of the State Governor Dr Ashwini Kumar to prevail upon the Chief Minister for removal Imchen as Minister without further delay to let the justice prevail.
Later talking to press her at Congress Bhavan on Wednesday, NPCC President SI Jamir disclosed that they sought appointment for Chief Minister but the latter could not give even for five minutes. So they had submitted the “Representation” through one of his officials at his office.

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Trucks leaving Imphal stranded

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IMPHAL, July 25: Empty trucks leaving Imphal yesterday along the National Highway 37 are stuck at a steep stretch at Nun Dalan due to poor condition of the highway. The stuck trucks which numbered around 500 had to be individually … Continue reading →

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IMPHAL, July 25: Empty trucks leaving Imphal yesterday along the National Highway 37 are stuck at a steep stretch at Nun Dalan due to poor condition of the highway.

The stuck trucks which numbered around 500 had to be individually pushed up by the BRTF using an excavator to pass the highway stretch.

However the rescue work had to be postponed for tomorrow following night fall.

It may be mentioned that following the sinking of a 110 meter road stretch at Phesama, Nagaland along the Imphal-Dimapur highway on July 12, vehicles plying along the highway had stopped their run.

Meanwhile, according to reports, around 140 empty fuel tankers and around 500 other empty goods trucks had left Imphal yesterday along the National Highway-37.

The empty trucks after crossing Barak Bridge had started climbing the steep stretch at Nung Dalan and got stuck.

Many trucks are now left stranded along the said portion of the highway. The truck pushing work will be continued from early morning tomorrow.

After the poor road stretch at Nung Dalan, there is only about 78 Kms left to reach Jiribam.

It may be mentioned here that a landslide recently occurred at Nung Dalan which had completely buried a bridge on the said road. The road restoration/repairing work are being carried out in full swing but due to the rain there is little progress in the work.

Meanwhile, the empty trucks numbering around 300 which had left Imphal are still stuck at Barak. The trucks will hold the night over there only along with the security escorts.

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“Time has come to know the status of the talks:” Dr Lotha

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“Time has come to know the status of the talks:” Dr Lotha By Oken Jeet Sandham Nagaland, KOHIMA, Jul 20 (NEPS): NCP leader, Dr TM Lotha, MLA expressed serious concern on the present peace process between the Government of India … Continue reading →

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“Time has come to know the status of the talks:” Dr Lotha

By Oken Jeet Sandham
Nagaland, KOHIMA, Jul 20 (NEPS):
NCP leader, Dr TM Lotha, MLA expressed serious concern on the present peace process between the Government of India and the Naga underground people as no tangible solution was still in sight.
Taking part in the general discussion on the budget on July 19 in the Assembly, the former DAN Minister informed the House that he had not seen any “tangible solution” even after 16 years of peace process between the Government of India and the Naga underground people.
Dr Lotha came out with his strong opinion that time had come for them to know the status of talks between the Government of India and the Naga underground people. “We cannot leave entirely to the negotiating parties,” he said. “I think we have right to know what is the stage of the talks between the Government of India and the Naga underground people.”
“Once the agreement is inked between the negotiating parties, we will have little scope to say on it,” he pointed out and further drew the attention of the House that they should know the stages of the process.
Cautioning that “if a leader makes a mistake, it is going to a blunder,” Dr Lotha said a time had come for them to know the status of the talks between the negotiating parties.
He suggested that if they were not kept informed of the progress of the talks, then at least the Leader of the House should be kept informed of the status of the talks between the Center and the Naga underground people. For which, he opined that they could work out a mechanism whereby the Leader of the House could be kept informed of the progress of the talks.

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Neiphiu Rio continues heaping praises State media

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KOHIMA, Jul 19 (NEPS): Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio continued to shower praises on the State media, appreciating their works, contributions and roles in strengthening of the “pillars of democracy.” While presenting Budget for the year 2013-14 in the Assembly … Continue reading →

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KOHIMA, Jul 19 (NEPS): Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio continued to shower praises on the State media, appreciating their works, contributions and roles in strengthening of the “pillars of democracy.”
While presenting Budget for the year 2013-14 in the Assembly on July 18, the Chief Minister, who is also Minister in-charge of Finance, acknowledged that the “press and media have come a long way in Nagaland, and they continue to play a constructive role. “I must specially compliment them for their comprehensive coverage of the proceedings of the Assembly sessions, thereby taking the business of this august House to our constituents,” he stated.
Nagaland media persons during recess of the Nagaland Assembly Budget Session on July 19, 2013 at their Press Room in Nagaland Assembly. (NEPS Photo)

Nagaland media persons during recess of the Nagaland Assembly Budget Session on July 19, 2013 at their Press Room in Nagaland Assembly. (NEPS Photo)

In his last Vote-on-Account for the year 2013-14 presented in the Assembly on March 16, Rio also hugely complimented the State press and media saying that they had been doing “commendable service to the people and it goes without saying that a positive and constructive media is a driving force behind the delivery mechanisms of the other three organs.”

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New farmers’ federation to uplift Northeast farmers

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Nagaland,KOHIMA, Jul 15 (NEPS) : It is good news for the farmers of the northeast that their welfare will now be taken care of by the formation of the new North East Farmers’ Federation (NEFF). The formation of the NEFF … Continue reading →

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Nagaland,KOHIMA, Jul 15 (NEPS) :

It is good news for the farmers of the northeast that their welfare will now be taken care of by the formation of the new North East Farmers’ Federation (NEFF).

The formation of the NEFF was first conceived by a few people from the State of Mizoram who have deeply involved themselves with dedication and concerned for the uplift of the farmers of North Eastern Region, says Dr YY Kikon, President of the new Federation, NEFF.

The former Director of Horticulture, Nagaland, Dr Kikon disclosed that with the initiative of the office bearers of All Mizoram Farmers’ Union (AMFU), the NEFF was officially launched on December 5, 2012 at Aizawl.

The main objectives of this Federation are:

  • To foster unity, mutual understanding and co-operation among the member representatives from different states in the interest of empowering the farmers of the region;
  • To safeguard, protect and promote the collective interests of the farmers by linking them with wider market accessibility;
  • To identify the potential projects in the region and provide logistic support with recommendation for success;
  • To advocate the ways and means of conservation of valuable and endangered flora and fauna of the region;
  • To strive to solve the problems of marketing of agriculture and allied produce, thereby raising the socio-economic status of the rural people;
  • To launch promotional activities and stimulate public/private investment for establishment of small and medium enterprises based on agricultural produce, for generation of income and employment in the rural areas;
  • To help provide affordable services to farmers, processors and exporters of agriculture and allied produce through training/seminar and other follow up support; and
  • To oversee all the important projects and schemes under agriculture and allied sectors of NER for proper implementation and transparency for the benefit of the targeted farmers in particular.

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Asking Center for sustenance of underground outfits “ridiculous”: SI Jamir

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By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Jul 11 (NEPS): Veteran Congress leader and Opposition Congress MLA SI Jamir has not approved the idea of demanding the Center a certain amount of fund as sustenance for the Naga underground people who are … Continue reading →

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By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, Jul 11 (NEPS): Veteran Congress leader and Opposition Congress MLA SI Jamir has not approved the idea of demanding the Center a certain amount of fund as sustenance for the Naga underground people who are in ceasefire with the Government of India as a solution to the underground taxation in the State.

It may be mentioned that of late State Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has been demanding the Center to frame certain policy to support the Naga underground people who are in truce with them (Center). He even went to the extent of blaming the Center for failure to formulate a policy to provide sustenance for the Naga outfits.

Rio further pointed out that since the undergrounds were not provided with any sustenance for their survival, they were compelled to impose various taxes on the people.

Talking to NEPS here at Congress Bhavan Thursday, Opposition Congress MLA SI Jamir, who is also President of NPCC, wondered the manner in which the State Chief Minister was trying to shift the blame to the Center for his (Rio) failure to run the affairs of the State.

Jamir alleged that the so-called multiple underground taxations in the State was because of the failure of the State administration. He, however, disclosed that the people were prepared to contribute to underground once in a year but not in multiple ways. And when such activities were taking place in the State, it had directly affected the citizens and then it “automatically falls under the purview of law and order.” “The State has failed in maintaining law and order,” he alleged.
“We also have seen relative peace taking place in the State after the ceasefires between the Center and the Naga underground groups, even collection of taxes or extortions was not that much,” the NPCC leader said. “But, unfortunately, more factions gradually came up and then more problems increased due to one-upmanship amongst them.”

“However, there are ceasefires with the Center and they are bound by the mutually agreed upon ceasefire ground rules,” he stated.

But asking the Center to frame policy to provide sustenance for the Naga underground outfits was “ridiculous,” Jamir said adding, “It would be a political blunder if they (Naga underground outfits) accept such pattern. “Because they have been negotiating with the Center on equal footing,” he explained.

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