‘Challenges faced by Nagas vary from the mainland’

Our Correspondent
 Kohima | June 1  

Several IAS, IPS, NCS, NPS and allied service probationers (2014 batch) gathered here today at the Administrative Training Institute (ATI) to familiarize themselves with specifics of Nagaland state.  

This was part of a two week long common induction programme, which started today and will continue till June 14. The Department of P&AR has made this programme mandatory for all civil servants as they enter into service in Nagaland.

“This programme is essential to understand the people and society where we will have to deliver as government servants,” said ATI Director, Lithrongla G. Chishi.  

The probationers will be briefed on  Naga polity & Naga national movement, 16 Point Agreement, Article 371 (A), re-looking at the Naga society, Nagaland Code etc.  

Chishi said the training module of induction, foundation and professional training programme for NCS and allied services officers were reviewed and it was decided that all cadre officers of the state will go through the common induction programme along with the NCS and allied service officers for two weeks at ATI in August 2013.  

Chishi said the need for this was felt since the state of Nagaland has come about through a political dialogue and there are many state specifics where even the Constitution gives special provisions under Article 371 (A).  

“The socio- ethnic aspect, and the political aspect of the Nagas are very much unique to the state,” said the ATI Director. She said as civil servants, one has to understand all these aspects to be able to deliver a just and sound administration, adding that the challenges and problems faced by the Nagas vary from the mainland.  

She also stated that being a hilly state with no industries, there is lack of manufacturing and service centres, lack of asset creation, unemployment and also moral issues need to be understood.  

Chief Secretary, Pankaj Kumar meanwhile urged the officers to try to work within the rules and at the same time adopt safety mechanism. He also urged the officers to follow the basic principles so that whatever they perform will be easier and deliver good service to the public.