Chizokho Vero
Chedema | February 21
The Nagaland People’s Front (NPF) today declared that the party is committed “to work and assist in any possible manner on any approach for a peaceful solution of the Indo-Naga political issue, keeping alive at the same time the fire of relentless endeavour to stand against any force to further divide the Nagas.” Stating this in its manifesto released here today for the forthcoming state general elections, it states that the party stands committed to preserving the unique history, honour and identity of the Nagas.
“The party will also continue to play a mediatory role for any peace talk with the Centre and to pave the way for an alternative arrangement in case of an honorable and acceptable settlement of the Naga political issue is found,” states the manifesto which was released by Rev. Deo Vihienuo, State Chaplain in the presence of NPF president Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu and other NPF leaders. The party also declared to strive for unity and integrity of all contiguous Naga-inhabited areas and remain vigilant to tackle illegal immigration “so that the demographic composition of Nagaland is not altered.” The NPF will also pursue the movement for recognition of “eastern” Nagaland people’s organization for their legitimate rights including the recognition of Nagas in Myanmar with defined territories.
It also announced that the NPF will strive for creation of a Nagaland Legislative Council to accommodate elders and imminent persons of the Naga society representing different areas of human society for their advice in the process of governance. “The party will also make further attempts to increase the number of seats in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and to both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha,” it says. On the social front, the manifesto said that the NPF will make continued efforts to protect and preserve the ethnic, traditional and cultural identity of Nagas strengthening the traditional village institutions and heritages by amending the relevant Acts. It would also work towards an equitable society irrespective of their community, caste, religion, profession or status of individual standing.
Social security including food security, for uplift and empowerment of women, setting up of district level women commissions, care for mother and child, special programme for senior citizens and disabled, empowerment of youth also figured as special area of NPF. On the development front, the manifesto said that it will focus on “health for all” by enhancing the infrastructure and needed manpower, to attain total literacy, special programs on agriculture and allied sectors including veterinary and animal husbandry with special emphasis on higher productivity and marketing facilities.
Irrigation, flood control, anti- soil erosion and water management programme will be on the leading agenda, it said.
It also stated that protection and preservation of natural environment, wild life, fauna and flora will be strictly implemented, adding that transport and communication sectors will continue to receive priority attention.
“Special packages for the less developed areas particularly for Tuensang, Mon, Longleng and Kiphire districts will be prepared and implemented,” the party manifesto said. Stating that power being the principle requirement for any industrialization and modern necessities of life, it said that such sector will receive topmost priority.
Provision of incentives to the small and medium industries will be continued while efforts will be made to attract notable business houses to invest in the state for which necessary facilities will be worked out, the manifesto said. Also highlighting the high potential of tourism industry in the state, the manifesto stated that the party will extend assistance to such ventures.
Touching on financing and administration, the manifesto said that the party will make all out efforts for appropriate funding agencies including business houses and international financing institutions. The party also assured of prudent dispensations in all financial matters. “The next government will also work towards a transparent administration with devolution and decentralization of powers to appropriate levels of officers even by amending the existing rules of executive business if need be,” it said.
It also stated that e-governance and the schemes of the Right to Information will further be improved and decentralized for the benefit of the general public at their door steps.
This document, the manifesto said “is not just a set of mere promises but a covenant with the people with full commitment as it opens a window to highlight our recent past achievements with a proof that our earlier election manifesto was not just mere promises.”
‘While we look back with a feeling of satisfaction with whatever we have achieved, we now look ahead with broader vision and confidence of attaining higher goals with clear intend and dedication coupled with joy, humility and modesty,” it said adding that “this manifesto is an offer the NPF would like to offer to the people of Nagaland for the next five years.”
