Dr Asangba Tzudir
The successive hike in prices of petrol, diesel, CNG which has jumped upto to nearly Rs. 5/litre in a span of 10 days is much more than an economic issue. It brings to fore a social concern as well since it is affecting every household in Nagaland. For instance, in a state where transportation is heavily dependent on road connectivity and where public transport systems remain quite limited, any increase in petrol and diesel prices triggers a chain reaction in the prices of essential commodities, transportation fares, and daily services. While the citizens often throw their anger toward governments, the situation also calls for a deeper reflection on the role of social responsibility among all stakeholders.
The hike in the price of Fuel causes such an effect in the state that is different from metropolitan regions. As most of the goods consumed in the state are imported from outside, transportation costs significantly influence market prices. Vegetables, construction materials, medicines, and various other essential supplies become more expensive once fuel prices rise. For ordinary families that are already burdened various issues including unemployment, the impact is severe. Daily wage earners, small traders, taxi drivers, auto rickshaws and two-wheelers are among the hardest hit sections.
However, beyond the economic hardship caused by this price rise lies a moral question: how should society respond during such times? Social responsibility becomes crucial as economic pressure increases. Unfortunately, such times also expose the unhealthy practices in society like increase in fares beyond reasonable levels. Certain traders exploit the situation by raising prices of commodities disproportionate to the actual increase in transportation costs. Besides, hoarding and panic buying sometimes worsen shortages and create unnecessary fear among consumers. Such practices only reveal a weakening of collective ethical responsibility.
In a closely-knit society like Nagaland, where community values and mutual support have traditionally been strong, crisis situation should rather strengthen solidarity instead of selfishness. This is where business houses, transport, and markets must exercise restraint and fairness. While rice adjustments may sometimes be unavoidable, exploitation in the name of inflation is socially and ethically unacceptable. Ethical business practices are not simply economic choices but they form the core aspect of responsibility towards the society.
The government too carries an important responsibility by keeping a check of transportation costs and also market regulation which is necessary. These are steps that will greatly reduce public burden. Fuel price rise should also encourage citizens to rethink patterns of consumption. Excessive dependence on private vehicles, unnecessary travel, and wasteful fuel consumption contribute to greater economic vulnerability. Carpooling, responsible use of vehicles, and support for local products may appear small, but collectively they can reduce pressure on both households and the environment. Social responsibility is not simply about demanding accountability from the government or authorities but also practicing responsible citizenship.
Educational institutions, churches, civil society organizations, and student bodies can also play a constructive role by promoting awareness about ethical economic behaviour and sustainable living. Nagaland’s social fabric has always emphasized community welfare over individual greed. This value must take precedence in the face of economic crisis.
Ultimately, fuel price rise is not merely about economics but also a test of our moral character. Difficult times test the moral strength of the society, and it calls upon the citizens to be cooperative and also exercise responsibility. Only through such cooperation, the people will be able to endure the present situation and which will also define the kind of society they build for the future.
(Dr. Asangba Tzudir contributes a weekly guest editorial to The Morung Express. Comments can be emailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
