PHEK, FEBRUARY 9 (MExN): The Phek District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PDCCI) held its 36th general session on February 8 at Phek Town Hall, with Chairman of the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI), Dr. Khekugha Muru, as the guest speaker.
Addressing the gathering, Muru emphasized the importance of ethics and morality in business, stating that a lack of these values erodes consumer trust and ultimately leads to business failure.
He also criticized the state government for neglecting the welfare of the business community despite its significant contribution of Rs 1,300 crore in Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue. “The government has yet to introduce a single welfare scheme for the business sector,” Muru said. He noted that the state has not established a business advisory board to address the needs of traders and entrepreneurs.
Muru further pointed out that CNCCI’s appeal to induct at least one nominated member from the business community in urban local bodies remains largely unfulfilled, except in Kohima and Mokokchung municipal councils. He vowed that CNCCI would continue to press the government for representation and other rights.
Condemning the issue of rampant and illegal taxation imposed by various Naga political groups, Muru urged the business community to take the lead in ending the practice, stating that neither the government nor civil society organizations have taken decisive action.
He also underscored the need for improved inter-district road connectivity to boost trade and commended the PDCCI for being one of the most “bold, unified, and strong” district commerce bodies in Nagaland.
MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, who also spoke at the event, said leadership requires the ability to accept constructive criticism. He lamented the increasing fragmentation of Naga society due to the proliferation of unions and organizations working for self-interest rather than the collective good.
“Today, every union or organization is working for their own interests rather than the common welfare,” Nienu said, adding that this division has left Naga society without clear direction.
