While it is too early for us to even imagine ourselves on the lines of the European Union (EU), the Northeast region if it is to progress together as a common entity must ensure that the parts of the sum total must contribute towards this progress. We therefore require each and every State to develop and progress in every sphere of activity—from education to peace, access to health care, women empowerment and a strong economy to name a few. It will also mean that we appreciate the diversity and unique nature of each State or community in the region. To progress therefore, we need to help and support each other. Surely there are going to be differences especially on the question of political aspiration. But on a whole if we look more closely there is going to be more commonalities on issues that should be of concern to people in the Northeast region. And perhaps we can start to build on these common issues. However for a more meaningful engagement across the board, a viable platform is required through which greater interaction can evolve over time. Such a process will have to look at the long term and be able to sustain the engagement. It will require effort, sincerity, patience and a vision. Obviously right now this does not look feasible because we in the region have not been able to invest in any common endeavour. We do have a forum where the Members of Parliament from the region come together but this is more of a rag tag arrangement. Perhaps the Northeast Students Organization (NESO) is the only kind of common platform in existence where student bodies from across the northeast region can meet and engage in common concerns. We need to laud the efforts of the NESO and hope that this platform can become the starting point for greater cooperation amongst people of the region.
As mentioned at the outset, there are many issues of concern that the region as a whole can take up together through a viable platform. We can atleast start talking about these issues. One area of grave concern that we in the region must tackle together is the menace of illegal immigrants. Clearly going by the experience so far, the inflow of illegal immigrants is a common threat that cannot be taken lightly anymore. People and their governments in the region must work together before it is too late. Pressure must be put on New Delhi to complete the task of fencing of the Indo-Bangladesh border. Clear policy initiative on the lines of the United States Homeland Security plan needs to be put in place both by the Government of India and respective State governments. We have to keep our borders secured from many of the threats we face, illegal immigrants being one of them. Next is the need for peace and conflict resolution. In fact the northeast region is known more for the negative images of insurgency, violence and disturbances. While efforts are on to address this concern through various agencies, people of the region must realize that they have a stake in a more peaceful region. The other area of focus must be on developing better infrastructure and connectivity across the region. This will be beneficial for all as it will open avenues for greater trade, commerce and people to people contact. Sustainable development along with promoting tourism, culture and showcasing our environment and natural resources should be given importance in government efforts. Along with the need to promote good governance, lastly we must invest in human resource development and institution building. The General Conference of the NESO starting today at Kohima will hopefully lead to coherence of ideas leading to a much needed common action plan and greater vigour and direction of our common cause.
