State govt will implement 7th ROP for employees: Governor
Our Correspondent
Kohima | March 21
The 15th session of 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) commenced here today with Nagaland Governor, PB Acharya highlighting the policies and programs, achievements and plans of the state government.
Highlighting the various initiatives and achievements of the state government during the last one year, he said “much has been done for the uplift of the state and the people; however much more remains to be done.”
The Governor announced that the state government has decided to implement Revision of Pay for state government employees following implementation of recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission by the central government.
“While this will bring much needed relief to the state government employees, the additional financial burden should draw our attention on the need to raising revenue and economizing on government expenditure to the extent possible, “he said.
“Transparency, efficiency, and accountability, with promotion of cashless transactions and direct benefits transfers, will also help us in achieving these objectives,” he viewed.
Govt to hold consultations with stakeholders on ULB issue
He also informed that the state government will hold consultations with all stakeholders, civil societies and the tribal bodies and work towards arriving at a consensual approach towards the Urban Local Bodies elections, and matters related to this.
Recounting the string of events and the turmoil caused in relation to ULB polls with 33% reservation, the Governor expressed sadness at the loss of lives in the ensuing violence. He further extended condolences to the bereaved families.
He reminded that a judicial enquiry has been set up to inquire into the matter.
Effort to ensure no further border fencing
Regarding the border fencing issue, the Governor said that the recent initiation of fencing on the Indo-Myanmar border along Pangsha in Noklak Sub Division by the Myanmar government has caused deep concern in the state.
“Such a move on the part of the Myanmar Government has the potential to adversely affect the free movement regime, besides the traditional social and economic ties that exist between the people in these areas on both sides of the border,” he said.
He expressed happiness that through the collective effort of the civil society organizations, the state government and the Government of India, it has been possible to impress upon the Myanmar government to stop the border fencing work.
“The state government will continue to make efforts to ensure that no similar fencing works are carried out in the international border areas in Nagaland,” he told the floor of the House.
Reiterates commitment to solve Indo-Naga issue
The Governor meanwhile also said that the state government supports the political dialogue between the GoI and the NSCN (IM). He meanwhile also appealed to the NSCN (K) to resume ceasefire with the GoI.
“My Government supports the ongoing political dialogue between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) and would continue to strive to work for a final solution to the more than six decades old Naga political issue in a peaceful, inclusive and honorable manner,” Acharya said.
He informed that the state government has also recently constituted the Political Affairs Mission to spearhead the government’s efforts in this area, replacing the erstwhile Political Affairs Committee.
He also made an appeal to the NSCN (K) to resume ceasefire with the Government of India in the larger interest of the Nagas.
After the Governor’s speech, MLA Dr Longrineken moved the motion of thanks, which was seconded by MLA Neiphrezo Keditsu. NLA Deputy Speaker, Imtikumzuk said amendment if any on the Governor’s address can be submitted till 2:00pm on March 22.
He said discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address will take place on March 23 and 24. Presentation of Comptroller & Auditor General (C&AG) Report will take place on March 24 while Supplementary Demands for Grants for the year 2016-2017 and Demand for Grants for the year 2017-2018 will be presented on March 28.
The assembly session will continue till March 30.
Meanwhile, talking to media persons, the NLA Secretariat clarified that refusal to submitting questions by members at the assembly session does not arise. “We shall have questions hour” said Commissioner & Secretary, N Benjamin Newmai, adding that 5 each of starred and unstarred questions have been received so far.
Dr. Imtiwapang Aier is 17th Speaker of NLA
Dr. Imtiwapang Aier was elected unopposed as the 17th Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) here today during the first day of the 15th session of the 12th NLA.
Dr. Aier hails from Sungratsu village under Mokokchung district and represents 23-Impur Assembly Constituency. He is the first person from Ao community to occupy the chair of NLA Speaker.
The proposers for his candidature included Health & Family Welfare Minister, P Longon and Roads & Bridges Minister, Y Vikheho Swu. The proposal was seconded by PHED Minister, Chotisuh Sazo and Parliamentary Secretaries Khriehu Liezietsu and Er Levi Rengma.
Congratulating the new Speaker, Chief Minister Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu said the NLA has always been known for maintaining the decorum and dignity of the House from the very beginning till date and hoped that this tradition will continue during Dr Imtiwapang Aier’s tenure as well.
Dr Aier will also function as the Chairman of the Nagaland Legislators’ Forum on Naga Political Issue and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Working Committee of Nagaland Legislators’ Forum on Naga Political Issue.
“I am sure that you will do justice to these extra responsibilities as well, and contribute your best towards facilitating the peaceful resolution of the Naga political issue,” the CM said, while assuring the new Speaker of “whole hearted support and cooperation” in the discharge of his duties.
Dr. Aier in his acceptance speech expressed gratitude to all the members of the House for electing him to the office. Later, Dr. Aier told the media persons that he will soon consult with the Parliamentary Working Committee of Nagaland Legislators’ Forum on Naga political issue and do the necessary.
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