Our Correspondent
Mima | February 14
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today announced that the state Cabinet has decided to declare the year 2010-11 as the ‘Year of Entrepreneurs’ for which the official declaration would be made in April.
Addressing an impressive gathering at the celebration of the 50th birth anniversary of renowned contractor, businessman and philanthropist, Vilelie at Mima village here today, the Chief Minister said the state government through its policy as part of the ‘Year of Entrepreneurs’, intends to identify and promote genuine entrepreneurs.
Reiterating that the Naga society has become a consumer society rather than a producing society, Rio said the government’s intention is to make Naga society into a producing society by promoting entrepreneurship among its youth. Acknowledging the contributions of Khamo to the society, the Chief Minister said the life of Vilelie, who survived on leftovers and handouts to rise to the top in Naga society to become one of the most successful contractors in the state, is worth emulating by today’s youngsters.
Observing the huge gathering of contractors on the occasion, the Chief Minister exhorted them to always ensure quality in their constructions, reminding that the government is now strictly insisting on quality control for any allotted project for which a board has also been constituted.
Also, reminding that he himself was a first class contractor before entering politics, he advised the contractors not to solely depend on government works but to take up private businesses. He also advised them to take the example of Vilelie and maintain humility, honesty and to reach out and help the needy.
He also paid rich tributes to Khamo, acknowledging him as a humanitarian and philanthropist who has played benefactor to the needy, not only of his own village or region but throughout the state. Meanwhile, to mark the 50th birth anniversary of Vilelie Khamo, a monolith was erected at the Mima local ground by the Mima Village Council as a mark of respect and in recognition of his immense contributions to the village.
