Morung Express News
Kohima | March 4
Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio has reiterated the importance of the Naga political issue as the top priority of the government during his concluding remarks in the discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address.
Stating that eight resolutions were passed and adopted in this Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Rio said it was unclear how many resolutions were adopted in support of integration of Naga contiguous areas as well.
While terming the unresolved Naga political issue as a serious concern for the Naga people who are living in the state of Nagaland, he appreciated the citizens, the civil society, tribal Hohos, prominent leaders, including our ex-parliamentarians wherein many resolutions have been passed in consultation with them. He stated that this will continue to be discussed and consultation will take place.
Rio informed that the present interlocutor AK Mishra has been coming to Nagaland on several occasions to meeting individuals and organisations. “We don’t know the exact status, but I intend to meet him with my Cabinet colleagues in good time.”
He also expressed his desired for the Government of India to be more sincere and is looking forward to meet Union Home Minister, to discuss about the Naga political issue, after consultation with the Naga civil groups.
“We are seriously concerned that we cannot continue in a stalemate like this. It is the desire of the Naga people that at the earliest, solutions comes about which is honorable, inclusive, and acceptable to the people” stated Rio.
Census discrepancies
Attributing ‘messed up systems’ to inaccurate census data including school education and many other departments.
Reflecting on past census figures, he pointed out that the 2001 census recorded Nagaland’s population at 19.90 lakh, but in 2003, it found the growth rate to be too high. Doubting the accuracy of these numbers, Rio said the state refused to accept them and with the support of civil societies, tribal Hohos, churches, and dedicated government officers, 2011 census was conducted which turned out to be 19.79 lakh showing a decline of over 11,000 people in ten years.
This, he said resulted in Nagaland being the only state in India with a negative population growth rate (-0.06%), in contrast to the national average, which has remained between 18-20%.
He stated that the 2001 census had recorded 67% growth rate, which led to policy miscalculations, especially in education. Subsequently, due to inflated census data, the education department expanded schools, appointed more teachers which are giving problems today, noted Rio.
He viewed that census manipulation in the past may have been motivated by an intent to gain benefits or to take advantage of many things, however emphasised that its time ‘to correct the wrongs we have done.’
On reservation policy
Rio stated that a comprehensive review of the reservation policy would be undertaken after the next census and it will not be in piecemeal.
While the reservation policy will be thoroughly studied, he extend support for basing reservation on economic status and educational backwardness and not as tribe wise and that new areas can also be taken.
Youth and Sports
While appreciating the members for their encouragement and support to the governor’s address on youth and sports initiatives, Rio highlighted the recent recognition and reward given to a Paralympic medallist, Hokato Hotozhe Sema and also mentioned Dr. T. Ao’s legacy.
Emphasising on the importance of sports for Nagaland, Rio mentioned the launch of the Nagaland Super League and its growing popularity and the sports infrastructures developments that are being undertaken.
Geology and Mining
While the Government of India’s has announced e-mission for mineral exploration, Rio highlighted Nagaland’s rich mineral deposits in the western and eastern part of the state with potential for revenue generation.
Towards this, he said expressed his commitment to exploring and exploiting these resources in the state emphasising on the need for increased revenue to fund development projects, pay salaries, pensions and service debt. He also noted with delight the growth in internal revenues from single digit to 13% and informed the house on the request made to the 16th Finance Commission for revenue gathering assistance.
