Correspondent
WOKHA, AUG 13 (NPN): Nagaland governor Nand Kishore Yadav has called for people-centred and sustainable development in Wokha, with greater focus on livelihood opportunities, youth empowerment, quality public services and preservation of the district’s cultural and natural heritage.
Addressing district officials, community leaders, civil society representatives and other stakeholders at the DC office conference hall during his visit to the district headquarters on Thursday, Yadav said Wokha had significant potential in agriculture, horticulture, tourism, handicrafts and entrepreneurship.
He called for greater support to farmers and local producers through technology, processing, value addition and market linkages, saying development should translate into better incomes and wider market opportunities.
Yadav placed particular emphasis on youth, saying government employment alone could not meet their aspirations. He encouraged young people to pursue entrepreneurship, skill development, innovation and self-employment, particularly in emerging sectors.
The governor also stressed the importance of quality education, accessible healthcare, reliable roads and connectivity, drinking water, electricity and other basic services. He urged the district administration to ensure transparency, accountability, responsiveness and timely delivery of public services.
On culture and the environment, Yadav said modernisation should go hand in hand with preservation of Lotha heritage and traditions. He cited community-led conservation of the Amur Falcon as an example of environmental stewardship and encouraged sustainable eco-tourism that benefits local communities while protecting natural resources.
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 outlined a vision for Wokha where farmers have better incomes, youth have meaningful opportunities, women participate fully in economic and social life, and natural resources are protected for future generations.
The governor called upon the youth to take ownership of Wokha’s future and urged all stakeholders to work with dedication, integrity and a strong sense of public service towards building a prosperous, sustainable and culturally rooted district.
During the programme, the Lotha Hoho submitted a reminder representation on the Wokha-Bokajan road. The Hoho stated that while the state Cabinet had approved its upgradation, the proposal required approval from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and onward consideration at the Prime Minister’s Office level. It urged the governor to help expedite the process.
The Lotha Eloe Hoho also submitted a representation seeking 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 briefed the governor on ongoing works and highlighted achievements and success stories in their respective sectors.
Meanwhile, Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) president S. Zubenthung Ngullie remained seated during the singing of the National Song and stood only when the National Anthem was sung.
YM Humtsoe, MLA, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Wokha K Mhathung Tsanglao, CSO representatives and officials from various departments were present during the programme.