The Mokokchung Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has welcomed the Government of Nagaland’s stand on government employees engaged in private sector, commending the directive as a “much-needed step to uphold the integrity of public service, ensure fair business competition, and promote a healthy economic ecosystem in Nagaland”.
In a press release, the MCCI stated some points why it believed that restricting Government employees from participating in private business ventures is crucial.
“Ensuring Government Efficiency and Integrity: Government employees are entrusted with the responsibility of serving the public with dedication and impartiality. Any involvement in private business interests can lead to conflicts of interest, misallocation of time, and possible misuse of official resources. By reinforcing service conduct rules, the Government ensures that employees remain fully committed to their official duties, enhancing overall governance efficiency.
Encouraging a Fair and Competitive Business Environment: When Government employees engage in private businesses, it creates an uneven playing field where undue influence and favoritism may prevail. By strictly enforcing Section 15(1) of the Nagaland Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1968, the Government is promoting a fair and competitive market, allowing independent entrepreneurs to thrive without undue interference or unfair advantages enjoyed by those in official positions.
Boosting Local Entrepreneurship and Employment: A business ecosystem free from government employee intervention will create greater opportunities for local entrepreneurs and youth seeking self-employment. The move ensures that business ownership and economic opportunities remain open for genuine entrepreneurs, thus contributing to the growth of Nagaland’s economy and the generation of sustainable employment.
Preventing Unethical Business Practices: The misuse of official positions to promote private enterprises is detrimental to ethical business practices. This notification will help curb such tendencies, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Read more: P&AR informs govt employees engaged in private sector employment
The MCCI hoped that the State Government will implement the notification in letter and spirit and urged all government employees to adhere strictly to the provisions of the notification and refrain from engaging in private employment without proper authorization. It also reassured its commitment to work alongside the Government to promote economic growth, entrepreneurship, and a transparent business environment.
