Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Thursday called for a people-centred approach to development in Wokha, with greater emphasis on education, healthcare, connectivity, livelihoods, youth entrepreneurship and preservation of Lotha culture and the environment.
The Governor visited Wokha district headquarters, where he interacted with district officials, community leaders, civil society representatives and other stakeholders at the DC Office Conference Hall.
Describing Wokha as a district endowed with rich cultural heritage, strong community traditions, fertile landscapes and considerable development potential, Yadav said the values embedded in Lotha traditions and customary institutions—including mutual respect, collective responsibility and social harmony—remained important amid rapid social and economic changes.
He stressed that development should ultimately be measured by its impact on ordinary people and called for improved access to quality education, healthcare, roads and connectivity, drinking water, electricity and other essential services.
Highlighting the district’s potential in agriculture, horticulture, tourism, handicrafts and entrepreneurship, the Governor called for greater support to farmers and local producers through technology, processing, value addition and stronger market linkages. Such interventions, he said, could help improve incomes and expand market opportunities for local products.
Yadav placed particular emphasis on the aspirations of young people, observing that government employment alone could not meet the expectations of the growing youth population. He encouraged youth to explore entrepreneurship, skill development, innovation and self-employment, particularly in emerging sectors and opportunities available within their own communities.
On culture and environmental conservation, the Governor said modernisation must go hand in hand with the preservation of Lotha heritage and traditions. He cited the community-led conservation of the Amur Falcon as an example of responsible environmental stewardship and encouraged the promotion of sustainable eco-tourism that generates benefits for local communities while protecting natural resources.
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The Governor also urged the district administration to ensure transparency, accountability, responsiveness and timely delivery of public services. He called for closer cooperation among the administration, traditional institutions, elected representatives, civil society and community groups, stressing that development was a shared responsibility.
Yadav further called for continued attention to education and healthcare, particularly in rural and remote areas, and said education should focus not only on examinations but also on developing critical thinking, creativity, confidence and a sense of responsibility.
He envisioned a Wokha where farmers have better incomes, youth have meaningful opportunities, women participate fully in economic and social life, traditional knowledge complements modern technology and natural resources are protected for future generations.
Calling upon the youth to take ownership of the district’s future, Yadav urged all stakeholders to work with dedication, integrity and a strong sense of public service towards building a prosperous, sustainable and culturally rooted Wokha.
The Lotha Hoho, as a reminder representation, submitted a memorandum on the Wokha-Bokajan road, stating that while the State Government had approved its upgradation, National Highway matters fall under the Centre. It said the proposal requires approval from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and onward consideration at the PMO level, and urged the Governor to expedite the process.
The Lotha Eloe Hoho also submitted a representation seeking the establishment of a hand-weaving centre in Wokha to preserve and promote local heritage and culture. The Hindu Union also submitted a representation.
Representatives from various departments highlighted ongoing works and shared success stories and achievements in their respective sectors.
Meanwhile, Lotha Students’ Union president S. Zubenthung Ngullie remained seated during the singing of the National Song and stood only when the National Anthem was sung.
