Advisor for Water Resources, Tongpang Ozukum inaugurated the “Arok Kilem” community building of Sungkomen Ward Council at Mokokchung Town on June 27.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, he acknowledged the efforts of the Sungkomen Ward Council and the Building Construction Committee for initiating and completing the construction despite limitations. He stated that having a dedicated community building is an important step for the ward’s development and governance.
Ozukum highlighted that government funding alone is not sufficient for all developmental needs. He stressed the importance of generating local revenue and cited crowd funding, donations, and community contributions as examples of how many wards are currently managing development projects, which is not enough. He encouraged ward leaders to explore sustainable methods of revenue generation to reduce dependency on external support.
Ozukum discussed the functioning of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), pointing out that Nagaland has only recently begun implementing the ULB system, while other parts of the country have had it for years. He urged citizens and ward leaders to understand the governance structure and take the lead in ensuring its proper implementation and functioning. He emphasized that leadership at the ward level is crucial for growth under the ULB framework.
He also stressed on the need for urban reforms in Nagaland, stating that municipalities in the state are at an early stage of development. He noted that government support through central ministries will be available for urban development, but public participation, responsibility, and contribution are equally important.
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Highlighting cleanliness and waste management under the Swachh Bharat Mission, he said that while there may not be large funds allocated specifically for these initiatives, community efforts can make a difference. He called for initiatives such as plastic-free wards and proper waste segregation.
The Advisor spoke about India’s vision to become a developed country by 2047 under the Viksit Bharat mission. He mentioned that Nagaland is aligning with this national vision through the Viksit Nagaland initiative. A meeting was held on June 10 to identify key development areas, and steps are being taken to move forward. He said that although it is not possible to predict how much can be achieved, coordinated efforts between the public and the government will drive progress.
He further acknowledged the recent installation of CCTV in Sungkomen Ward, terming it an important step towards ensuring public safety. He said that such initiatives, though small, play a significant role in improving the quality of life in urban areas.
Concluding his speech, Ozukum said that in his constituency, which includes three municipal wards, there are many areas yet to be developed. He noted that while no major breakthroughs in revenue generation have been achieved yet, the possibility exists and beautification projects will be taken up in time.
Earlier during the program, Marshilu, Deacon of Süngkomen Baptist Arogo, pronounced the invocation. Short speeches were delivered by Temsunungsang Kichu of the Kichutzar Clan, Mokokchung Village; T Lima Kichu, former Chairman of Süngkomen Ward & Councillor of MMC. Nungshimangyang, Convenor of the Construction Committee, presented a brief report on the building construction. Matsüng Longkumer, Assistant Pastor of Süngkomen Baptist Church, led the dedicatory prayer. Lanu Pongen, Executive Member of Süngkomen Ward Council, delivered the vote of thanks, and Merennungsang, G.B of the ward, pronounced the closing prayer.
