Support local innovation

Y Merina Chishi


There is no dearth of talent in Nagaland. Every now and then we hear stories of people coming up with innovative ideas to help the society. For instance, three Naga boys Kesosilie Kennao, Mhaleu Metha and Tali Chang, who with no technical backgrounds or degrees whatsoever, have created zero-touch hand sanitizer dispensers that can help people during the COVID-19 pandemic. These boys have not invented anything new, but the fact that it is being developed and designed by our own is a benchmark.  

        
Innovative businesses can solve a lot of social and economic problems in Nagaland. The innovations may be a prototype but given the right boost and support, it could have a positive impact on the society. The state has undergone tremendous change since the 'subsidy' days. These days, there are many youths who the right skills and ideas but do not have the start-up. If the government invests in the right people, it can build a strong economy and solve a lot of unemployment problems.      

          
In the past, the Government of Nagaland provided 'subsidies' under the Department of Industries and Commerce but most of the beneficiaries were presumed to be bogus. The subsidy years only filled the pockets of those in power, their kith and kin; thereby costing a great deal of loss to the state's small and medium enterprises.      

           
There are so many Naga youths with skills in various fields if the government is just willing to step forward and give them the support to develop their talents further. While the government has been talking about supporting innovative start-up, the reality is that only a handful of people have got it started.

                     
 More innovative enterprises mean more jobs and more jobs leads to better economic growth. Sadly, there is a lot of brain drain happening in Nagaland. Thousands of skilled and talented Nagas are seeking work outside due to lack of opportunities in the State. Nagaland may not have a lot of science and engineering people, but there are a lot of potential local inventors and skilled people. If supported by the government properly, they could contribute immensely to the wealth and economy of the State.    

            
Private organisations or individuals who have the means to support such talents can also play a key role. Such help and funding could tremendously help our economy. It is just willingness and support that is needed to invest in Nagas who have the potential to bring something to the table but lack funding.  

           
As a State, we also need to slowly transition from serving only as a market for outside goods but also take our goods to other markets. We need to start planning properly, rethink strategies to develop our economy by utilizing local skills. And for that, the government's support is very essential.
Comments can be sent to merinachishi@gmail.com