The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) Mokokchung Region, in collaboration with the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), conducted an ‘Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme’ on February 10 at the NDPP Office Conference Hall, Mokokchung. The event focused on promoting entrepreneurship, informing attendees about government schemes, and enhancing financial literacy.
Mangyangnungba, President of NDPP Mokokchung Region, in his welcome address, underscored the importance of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth and reducing unemployment. He noted that addressing unemployment was a key priority for the party during the 2023 assembly elections and contributed to their electoral success. He highlighted two major government initiatives—the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI) and the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS). While CMHIS has been effectively implemented in the district, CMMFI faced initial difficulties but has now been refined to improve accessibility. He urged party members to actively promote these schemes at the grassroots level.
Delivering the keynote address on CMMFI: The Boon of Start-ups, Imchatoba Imchen, President of the NDPP Central Youth Organisation (CYO), stated that Nagaland ranks among the top five states with the highest educated unemployment rate. He pointed out that government jobs are already saturated and emphasized the need for young people to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
“The startup initiative was introduced at the central level in 2016 under the NDA government. We must identify available opportunities, gather detailed information, and encourage genuine individuals to take the initiative,” he said.
He further stressed that IDAN is a key resource for industrial growth in Nagaland, and there are multiple schemes under the industry department that can support small-scale enterprises. He mentioned various trades such as blacksmithing, plumbing, and masonry and many other as viable start-up options.
“The government will not provide free money; all financial support will be in the form of loans or subsidies. We must take responsibility for ourselves,” he asserted.
Highlighting the importance of adapting to evolving job markets, Imchen said, “The world is moving fast, and we need to keep pace. We must be open to multitasking.” He noted that food processing is one area with significant financial support through loans and subsidies.
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Speaking on CMMFI, he acknowledged that the program failed in its first year due to multiple loopholes. However, he assured that the government has since streamlined the system with renewed guidelines and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is committed to ensuring its proper implementation.
“The program is now well-structured. If implemented correctly, it will be a game-changer for the youth and drive Nagaland towards progress,” he stated.
The Success Story was presented by Katitula Jamir, General Secretary of the NDPP Women Organisation.
The technical session on Entrepreneurship Development Schemes and Financial Literacy was conducted by the Center Manager of Swavalamban Connect Kendra (SCK) as the resource person, along with Opangnenla, Credit Coordinator. The session focused on various government-backed schemes, financial planning, and the importance of financial awareness. The Center Manager also addressed participants’ concerns regarding challenges in accessing benefits and assured necessary support to resolve their issues.
