Nagaland Governor, Nand Kishore Yadav has urged young professionals under the Chief Minister’s Fellowship Programme Nagaland (CMFPN) to contribute meaningfully to governance, evidence-based policymaking and the overall development of the State.

Yadav made the call during an interactive session with CMFPN Fellows at Lok Bhavan on Monday, encouraging them to think independently, gain practical knowledge and explore innovative solutions to Nagaland’s development challenges.

The CMFPN is a flagship initiative of the Government of Nagaland implemented by the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN). The programme seeks to strengthen governance through research, evidence-based policymaking and field engagement, with Fellows assisting various government departments in preparing policy briefs, research reports and development frameworks aligned with the State’s priorities and the vision of Viksit Nagaland 2047.

During the interaction, the Governor highlighted the immense potential of Nagaland in sectors such as tourism and agriculture. He observed that while the Hornbill Festival has significantly contributed towards promoting Nagaland, the State should explore and develop tourism opportunities beyond a single festival. He encouraged greater exploration of the tourism sector and the creation of sustainable avenues to attract visitors throughout the year.

Emphasizing Nagaland’s vast agricultural potential, the Governor said that sectors such as organic farming, coffee, rubber and other agricultural activities hold significant opportunities for economic growth and livelihood generation. He encouraged the Fellows to explore ways to leverage these resources and potentials for the benefit of the people.

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The discussion also touched upon the importance of research in addressing challenges faced by farmers. A Fellow highlighted the need to identify and solve agricultural problems through focused research and innovation so that practical solutions can reach farmers at the grassroots level.

On the subject of entrepreneurship and indigenous products, the discussion emphasized the importance of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), and that protecting and registering indigenous products and traditional knowledge is vital for safeguarding the unique identity and economic interests of Nagaland’s entrepreneurs and producers.

Interacting with the Fellows interested in public administration, the Governor emphasized that timely disposal of work and transparency are among the key principles of effective administration. He also highlighted the importance of prior planning, dedication and clarity of purpose. Drawing from his own experience in public service, he encouraged the Fellows to remain focused on their goals and pursue their chosen path with sincerity and determination.

“Your direction should be right. Do not merely imitate others. Think deeply, acquire practical knowledge and continuously explore opportunities to learn more,” he advised.

The Governor also spoke about the importance of strengthening the health sector. While acknowledging the significant investments being made by the Government of India in healthcare, he observed that quality health services must effectively reach the grassroots. He stressed the need to strengthen institutions such as Primary Health Centres and Community Health Centres and encouraged greater attention towards improving healthcare delivery across the State.

Encouraging the Fellows to broaden their perspectives, the Governor advised them to look beyond Nagaland, observe successful practices elsewhere and study what could be feasibly adapted to suit the unique conditions and requirements of the State. He also urged them to inspire others through their work and commitment.

Stressing the importance of collective responsibility, the Governor said that the vision of Viksit Bharat and Viksit Nagaland can only be realised through the collective contribution and active participation of all sections of society.

Concluding the interaction, the Governor extended his best wishes to all the Fellows and expressed confidence that their knowledge, research and commitment would contribute towards building a stronger and more developed Nagaland.

The CMFPN fellows was led by Under Secretary, IDAN, Changsang Soted.