The author Dr Aniruddha Babar is a senior faculty in the Department of Political Science, Tetso College, Nagaland.

In the quiet folds of Eastern Nagaland, where the air resonates with the whispers of untold stories, lies a tapestry of resilience woven by “invisible” border communities. These forgotten landscapes, with their undulating hills and lush greenery, harbour a silent yearning to be embraced by the success story of India. It is a narrative that transcends borders, uniting hearts in a quest for recognition and inclusion.

Nestled on the fringes, these border communities have borne witness to the ebb and flow of history, standing resilient amidst the trials that have marked their existence. Yet, their stories often remain relegated to the margins, overshadowed by more prominent narratives. It is time to unravel the tales of these unsung heroes and acknowledge their rightful place in the mosaic of India’s triumphs.

In the pursuit of progress, Eastern Nagaland’s border communities have faced unique challenges. Geopolitical complexities have rendered these regions vulnerable, with issues of connectivity and development often taking a back seat. As the rest of the nation strides forward, these communities grapple with the harsh reality of being on the periphery, yearning for the dividends of success to trickle down to their doorstep.

The people of Eastern Nagaland are not mere spectators; they are active participants in the nation’s narrative. Their hard work, resilience, and cultural richness contribute immeasurably to the diverse tapestry of India. From the verdant fields that yield sustenance to the vibrant traditions that echo through the hills, Eastern Nagaland is a repository of untapped potential waiting to be harnessed for the greater good.

It is crucial to recognize that the success story of India is incomplete without the integral chapters contributed by these border communities. Their struggles have been woven into the very fabric of the nation, and denying them the fruits of progress is akin to stifling the heartbeat of inclusivity. Every milestone achieved by India should reverberate in the valleys of Eastern Nagaland, echoing the triumphs of a united nation.

The call for inclusivity is not a plea for charity but a demand for acknowledgment of the inherent rights these border communities hold. Their aspirations are not a distant echo; they are the pulsating rhythm that resonates within the heart of the nation. To disregard their rightful place in the success narrative is to deny the very essence of unity in diversity that India proudly espouses.

Development should not be a privilege limited to certain regions; it should be a beacon illuminating every corner of the nation. The roads of progress must traverse the challenging terrains of Eastern Nagaland, bringing with them the promise of a brighter future. The infrastructure deficit in these areas should not be a stumbling block but a rallying cry for concerted efforts to bridge the gap and uplift the lives of those living on the periphery.

In acknowledging the rightful place of Eastern Nagaland’s border communities in India’s success story, it is imperative to appreciate the cultural kaleidoscope they bring to the national canvas. The rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and customs is an invaluable asset that enriches the collective identity of the nation. A success story that fails to embrace this diversity is inherently incomplete and lacks the vibrancy that defines India.

Empowering communities through education is a transformative journey that extends far beyond the realms of academia. It is a profound investment in the collective strength of a community, enabling them not only to articulate their own success story but to become architects of their destiny. Education serves as the cornerstone for constitutional, legal, and political empowerment, providing individuals with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of their rights. In parallel, constitutional and political autonomy emerges as a beacon, offering communities the agency to shape their destinies within the framework of the larger nation. This empowerment is not just a theoretical concept but a practical realization that enables marginalized communities to participate actively in the democratic process, fostering a sense of ownership over their future. By intertwining education with constitutional and political autonomy, we forge a path where communities not only strengthen themselves but also contribute meaningfully to the diverse tapestry of a nation.

Beyond the realms of policy and development, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the individual stories that make up the collective narrative. The indomitable spirit of the people, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their unwavering commitment to a better tomorrow are threads that bind them to the larger narrative of India’s success. Each success story in Eastern Nagaland is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit, a narrative that deserves to be told and heard.

The success story of India is incomplete without the active participation and recognition of Eastern Nagaland’s border communities. Their struggles, aspirations, and contributions are integral to the larger narrative of a united and diverse nation. It is time to weave these untold stories into the fabric of India’s success, acknowledging the inherent rights of these communities and ensuring that the dividends of progress reach every corner of the nation. In embracing the stories of Eastern Nagaland, India embraces the true essence of unity in diversity.