Dimapur, February 4 (MExN): Speaking at the inaugural program of the Rural Industries Programme (RIP) at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur, Principle Secretary, Alemtemshi Jamir chalked out steps for an economic boom in Nagaland. He effectively dismissed the popular cry of unemployment in Nagaland as a myth saying that the “Land-Man” ration in Nagaland was actually very low. Referring to the RIP undertaken by the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship, Guwahati, Alemtemshi said that this programme only amplifies the numerous programs of the Government of India to help the people.
The problem, according to Alemtemshi, is the mindset of the Naga people. He refuses to believe that Nagas lack entrepreneur skills saying that even farming is a form of entrepreneurship. “Perhaps the problem is that Nagas are caught up in a time frame, where changes are taking place at such a fast pace that we are unable to adjust”, he diagnoses and also touches on the political problems that infest the state with the violence and unrest which makes it difficult to launch an enterprise. He emphasizes the need for Naga society to self-introspect adding “We are killing ourselves”.
Talking of the “Incentive Policy” available in the government projects meant to encourage young entrepreneurs, Alemtemshi expressed regrets that these incentives were often used by government servants as bonuses and by politicians to show patronage. This trend of using incentives to show patronage was started by the entrepreneurs themselves, he admonished and added that Nagas must be serious about the system that need to be put in place to see changes.
The Principle Secretary also let on that he was untroubled about the lack of infrastructure in the state as there were big plans being put to motion. He disclosed plans for the state to have 200 Mega Watts of power within three years and 500 MW by 2020 through internal supply including the additional inputs from thermal power. As for the roads, he said that the fund for the Four Lane Highway had already been release since 1998 but was held up for lack of will of the implementing agencies and because the people are not willing to give land.
In this connection, Alemtemshi advocates reforms in the Nagaland Land Revenue Act, which forbids any non-local person(s) or agencies from purchasing land in the state. He said that this act was preventing many big firms from investing in the state and also became a barrier for obtaining loans from banks because land could not be used as a collateral security. It is time for Nagas to come out. We cannot remain afraid of the rest of the world. Globalisation is here to stay”, Alemtemshi asserted to the gathering. However, the Principle Secretary added a more positive perspective to the problems faced by the Nagas. Taking the example of Korea, which was one of the poorest countries in the world till the late 60’s, Alemtemshi described how the people’s hard work and policy had now revive the nation and made it the third riches country in Asia, rivaling super powers like China and Japan. He applied the example to Nagaland and states, “I know we can do it because others have done”.
