The District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting for Zunheboto district was held on November 10 at the Deputy Commissioner Conference Hall, Zunheboto, with Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, S Supongmeren Jamir, to review the progress of developmental activities and assess the implementation of various government schemes in the district.
The meeting commenced with a welcome address by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Zunheboto, Shaying Sheu, who acknowledged the proactive involvement and encouragement of the MP towards strengthening departmental coordination, and motivating Heads of Offices (HoOs) to remain committed to their respective responsibilities. This was followed by a review of the proceedings and action taken on the previous DISHA meeting.
Addressing the meeting, MP S Supongmeren Jamir urged all departments to give priority to the developmental needs of the district, and ensure effective implementation of government programmes. He particularly emphasised the need to improve the standard of education in government schools, following a PowerPoint presentation by the District Education Officer on the activities and functioning of schools across Zunheboto district.
During the discussion, the MP expressed concern over the comparatively better academic performance of private schools than government schools, and sought clarification from the Education Department on the reasons behind the disparity. The department acknowledged the gap, citing the shortage of subject teachers and other challenges affecting the functioning of government schools.
Stressing that education at the foundational level must not be overlooked, the MP called upon the department to give equal importance to primary and elementary education. He observed that private schools, despite having comparatively fewer facilities, limited staff and lower salaries, were producing better academic results; while government schools, with relatively better facilities and higher salaries, continued to face challenges in academic performance. He questioned the reasons behind this disparity and pointed out that the issue was not confined to Zunheboto, but was prevalent across Nagaland.
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The meeting also deliberated on the timely distribution of free textbooks and school uniforms. Officials highlighted that delays in the supply of textbooks were creating difficulties for students and stressed the importance of ensuring that learning materials reached schools before the commencement of the academic session. Concerns were also raised over the distribution of ready-made uniforms, which often failed to fit students properly. The issue of teacher rationalisation was discussed, with a suggestion to consult the concerned Block Education Officers for a more effective and balanced deployment of teachers.
ADC Zunheboto, Shaying Sheu further highlighted the challenges faced by the Education Department, particularly the delays in supplying textbooks and uniforms. He also enquired about the functioning of the SMILE App, and also pointed out that the engagement of substitute teachers was among the factors requiring attention in improving academic outcomes.
In another important discussion, the Transport Department highlighted road safety awareness and the provisions under the PM Rahaat scheme, informing the meeting that no applications had been received from the district so far. The MP urged the concerned authorities to intensify awareness and encourage the public to avail themselves of the scheme, particularly in cases involving road accidents, so that eligible beneficiaries could receive the intended assistance.
The meeting concluded with an emphasis on strengthening inter-departmental coordination, ensuring accountability among government functionaries and addressing gaps in the implementation of development and welfare programmes. The MP reiterated the importance of prioritising local needs, improving the quality of education and ensuring that government initiatives translate into tangible benefits for the people of Zunheboto district.
