Here I would like to propose that Nagas can transform Dimapur into a modern city state similar to the world class cities like Singapore, Hongkong etc. I am presenting the skeleton proposition just to provoke the minds of concerned citizens and also to enrich it with their wise ideas.
Every district in Nagaland belongs to a particular Naga tribe; and even within the district, in every district headquarters one would see the domination (direct or indirect) of the land donor village(s) of that particular town. Thus, our district headquarters are missing certain ingredient to develop into modern cosmopolitan townships. (this is one area where Nagas need to get ourselves educated the art of civilized urban living).
But Dimapur is a home for all the Nagas. Here every Naga has a sense of belongingness, ownership, freedom and pride. That is why Dimapur has become the destination of every Naga. We are particularly impressed to hear Naga youngsters from Dimapur addressing among themselves as ‘Dimapurians’. This is the place for the Nagas to come out of their tribal parochialism and become part of one big Naga family.
Even now Dimapur is the commercial hub of Nagaland. Can we not transform it into an economic power house of India?
Certain modalities can be evolved to make the city self-governing. Dimapur Municipal Council and Dimapur Naga Council can be combined together and turn it into a unique kind of city government. It can function as a mini parliament or mini assembly exclusively for the administration of the city. And there should be a free and fair election every after five years for this office.
Every household must be taxed, every car that plies in the city must be levied road tax per trip particularly in the main city, every worker should have the work permit and every work permit holder must be taxed. The money collected through the tax should be utilised for the administration and development of the city and for the welfare of the people of the city. Taxation makes the government accountable and empowers the citizens to be assertive.
Many Naga youngsters are migrating to the cities of mainland India to work in multinational companies and other out-sourcing centres. Can we also not establish similar kind of centres with attractive amenities in Dimapur? People from others parts of India and even from foreign countries will like to come and work in our city if we also provide attractive facilities. Now with proper e-connectivity system, works for the companies of America, Korea, Japan and other foreign countries can also be done from Dimapur. Can we not make an attempt?
Dr. B. Henshet Phom
Longleng
