A first-of-its-kind workshop titled “Developed Nagaland by 2047” was organised by the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) Wokha region at the Hammock Resort, New Wokha village on July 19 to engage young stakeholders in envisioning a progressive and prosperous future for Nagaland.
The event featured prominent speakers including MLA and advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, MLA Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, and CEO of Pinacle Skills Nagaland, Dr. Yan Murry. The programme was chaired by advisor to the Chief Minister, Dr. Chumben Murry.
The workshop centred on themes of good governance, inclusive policymaking, and youth-led entrepreneurship, drawing the participation of youth organisations, policy advocates, and local leaders.
Advisor Yanthan emphasised the importance of a clear development strategy, inclusive policy-making, and active public participation while speaking on the topic of effective policy pathways. He asserted that without a clear vision, actionable plan, and collective effort, development would remain a distant goal. He called on every section of society to contribute meaningfully to the progress of Nagaland, stressing that development cannot be the responsibility of the government alone.
On policy-making, he underscored the need for policies that are inclusive, adaptable, and grounded in evidence. “Policies must evolve with time and carry a sense of ownership. Everyone must feel involved—not just as beneficiaries, but as active participants in the process of change,” he stated.
Highlighting agriculture as a key driver of the economy, Yanthan urged a shift from subsistence farming to a market-oriented approach. “Agriculture should not be seen merely as a way of life, but as a serious economic activity,” he said, encouraging youth to take agriculture seriously as a profession.
He also spoke on the importance of expanding career horizons, calling upon young people to venture beyond traditional job expectations. He appealed to parents to support their children’s career choices, particularly in exploring opportunities outside the state and in emerging sectors.
Yanthan further called for greater respect for policymakers and a stronger partnership between citizens and institutions. “Only through shared responsibility and commitment can we realise the vision of a developed Nagaland by 2047,” he concluded.
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Speaking on the topic “Skill Development and Entrepreneurship”, Dr. Yan Murry highlighted the urgent need for future-ready skills, while stressing that mastering emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and embracing vocational education will be vital for the youth to thrive in the rapidly changing job market.
He noted that by 2047, a significant number of current job roles will be replaced by AI, and urged the youth to equip themselves with the right tools and knowledge to remain employable.
“AI is no longer the future; it is the present. If you do not learn to use it, you may lose opportunities to it,” he cautioned, while encouraging students to consider degrees in early childhood education and vocational fields, which are expected to see strong growth in the years ahead.
Murry also turned the spotlight on renewable energy and the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). Citing the increasing demand for skilled EV technicians, he proposed that Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Nagaland, particularly in Wokha, consider introducing specialised courses to meet this emerging need.
Addressing economic barriers, he expressed concern that Nagaland ranks among the lowest in terms of marketing ease. “We must bridge this gap,” he said, calling for local leaders and educators to increase efforts in building financial literacy. He urged that more financial literacy camps be held in the district and that young people take active part in them.
Dr Murry concluded by urging the youth not only to seek jobs but to become job creators through entrepreneurship, innovation, and upskilling. His remarks drew attention to the crucial role of skill-based education in building a self-reliant and economically robust Nagaland by 2047.
MLA Humtsoe called for unity, transparency, and a shift in mindset among the youth to realise the dream of a truly developed Nagaland. He emphasised that development cannot be achieved without uprooting corruption and overcoming social divisions. “We must rise above tribalism and think collectively as Nagas if we are to see meaningful change,” he said.
Humtsoe underscored the vital role of youth in driving progress, urging them to commit to the development of their communities rather than waiting for the government to act. “True development starts with individuals taking responsibility for their surroundings,” he asserted.
He encouraged active engagement with Digital India initiatives, highlighting the importance of digital governance in ensuring efficiency, transparency, and citizen empowerment. He stated that digital tools can bridge gaps in service delivery and foster accountability.
He also stressed the need for inclusive politics and selfless service from civil society organisations, urging them to work together towards common goals. He appealed to the younger generation to move beyond the pursuit of government jobs and embrace entrepreneurship, self-employment, and innovation as viable and impactful career paths.
“As we look ahead to 2047, let us cultivate a culture of cooperation, not competition; of service, not self-interest,” he concluded.
Chairing the workshop, Dr. Chumben Murry, who is also a senior vice president of NDPP, expressed confidence in India’s economic trajectory and encouraged Naga youth to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven livelihoods.
Reflecting on the national vision of Viksit Bharat, Murry highlighted that India has risen from being the world’s 10th largest economy to 4th in just over a decade, and is poised to overtake Germany to claim the 3rd spot. “This is not just a national achievement but a signpost for regions like Nagaland to align with emerging economic opportunities,” he stated.
Turning attention to Nagaland’s local potential, Murry identified tourism, agri-based industries, and technology-enabled farming as promising avenues for youth to explore. He urged the younger generation, particularly the educated, to think beyond conventional employment and take the lead in shaping a self-reliant and innovative state economy.
“We must shift from dependency to productivity. From government jobs to entrepreneurship. From waiting to creating,” he said, calling on youth to become agents of transformation in their communities.
Encouraging entrepreneurship and industrial ventures, he stated that Nagaland’s growth depends on its ability to harness local resources and talent, especially through skill development and tech adoption. He added that with the right mindset and support, the state can emerge as a model of sustainable development.
The workshop concluded with interactive sessions exploring practical steps towards achieving the vision of a developed Nagaland by 2047.
