‘Nagas need consistent economic growth’

Morung Express News
Mongsenyimti | January 23

Day two of the 64th general conference of the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) was graced by Alemtemshi Jamir IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries, and APC. While addressing the conference, Alemtemshi said that in the new millennia, Nagas needed to be guided by three principal thoughts. First, that as suggested by the AKM theme for the 64th general conference, “Renaissance in the mode of economic growth,” the Nagas need consistent economic growth which, in his view, can be achieved through commercial scale production of agricultural produces. He added that agricultural renaissance in the present context could mean post harvest activities like storage, transportation and marketing. 

Second, he said that agricultural renaissance will lead to industrialization. He laid particular emphasis on the fortunate revival of Tuli Paper Mill and added that the Nagas need to evolve a new culture that is industrial culture. Third, he envisioned that in the next ten to fifteen years the Nagas will witness growth of international trade and commerce for which he called upon the young to be ready. He also cited the example of Korea, a former colony which has now emerged as the eleventh richest country in the world thanks to gargantuan economic growth in not more than thirty years.

The day began with a ‘sunrise service’ where the president of Naga Hoho, Bendangmangyang, inaugurated the AKM Samanir Supongnuklu Memorial Park. Other highlights included speeches by the president of Watsu Mungdang Supongla Lemdor and R. Lepden, ex-MLA, and presentation of AKM Educational Trust Award to K. Azungla Pongener, and literary activities. The morning session was chaired by Temjensangla Longkumer while the evening session saw the main speaker of the conference Dr. N Benjong Aier speaking on the topic “Holistic approach towards economic growth.”   aThe NSF President Imchatuba Imchen also made a short speech. The session began with a prayer fellowship led by the pastor of Mongsentimti Baptist Church and was chaired by Imotemjen, ex-President AKM.