Minister Health and Family Welfare P. Paiwang Konyak cautioned the youth of the Konyak community on the disparities in distribution of reservation quota despite the Konyak population surpassing that of its fellow Eastern tribes, placing Konyaks the most backward among the communities.
Addressing the gathering on the second day of the 75 years of the Konyak Students’ Union (KSU) at Mon, on December 14, the minister underscored certain concerns that has adversely impacted the Konyak generations over the past decade and a half.
Asserting that the Platinum Jubilee signifies the jubilation and achievements of the past, Konyak however said one must be more resolute and prepare to stride forward, amending the mistakes of the past 74 years and aspiring to achieve what was deemed impossible.
With the enactment of the Nagaland SARFAESI Act in the State Assembly on November 26, 2021 Konyak urged the youths to explore business opportunities, collaborate with investors and transition Nagaland from a salaried economy to a thriving business economy stating that the available resources provide a significant advantage and it was time to move beyond conventional white-collar jobs.
Stating that the State government have acknowledged the Eastern Region’s developmental disparities the minister informed that it is an opportune moment to focus on sustainable growth, prioritizing institutions, economic development, infrastructure and employment in this region should be our collective goal.
“As Mon District lies in an ideal geographical location, sharing borders with Myanmar, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, these areas promises a potential tourist destinations both within the state and the country.
Keeping this mind, Konyak said a helipad in Chen Town was sanctioned in 2021 to strategically connect Myanmar, while also PHCs Chenmoho will be set up to cater medical needs for both countries and Longwa in addition.
The minister also advocated for adoption of new farming methods for sustainable growth without compromising the environment citing instances of the success of tea plantations in the Tizit valley which he said can be extended to Tapi, Wakching, Phomching, Aboi, and Moka, contributing not only to the economy but also creating employment opportunities.
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He also mentioned that state government’s decision to designate foothill areas under the Nagaland Special Development Zone (NSDZ) was a positive step and said cadastral survey of the land should be conducted which will enable the citizens to secure bank loans and lease land to industrial companies for the establishment of industries and mega projects. He maintained that Nagaland is safeguarded by Article 371(A) and the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, including the Inner Line Permit which are integral to the Naga identity and urged to preserve the essence of Naga heritage for future generations.
On ENPO demand on separate statehood, Konyak said since the elected members were aligned at the grassroot, he said ENLU members have requested for the working papers and assured for a thorough examination, deliberation, consultation with the public for a referendum adding that its action will be determined by the public collective decision.
On delimitation of constituencies, Konyak said the ensuing exercise might result in the reduction of assembly seats in Mon District and other districts with disproportionate population-to-assembly seat ratios. “Therefore, it is imperative to accurately enumerate all citizens, aligning with the Aadhaar system, to ensure a correct population census,” stated Konyak.
Congratulating the KSU for achieving a milestone, the minister urged to draw inspiration from the wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm generated during the event, utilizing and executing strategies to elevate and enhance the way of life, society and district.
The minister was accompanied by host of MLAs from Mon district while senior government, former KSU leaders, leaders of different organizations attended the programme.
