DIMAPUR: Lok Sabha MP S. Supongmeren Jamir has called for improving the standard of government schools, expressing concern over the academic performance gap between government and private institutions.
According to DIPR, he raised the issue during the DISHA Committee meeting for Zunheboto district at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, where developmental activities and implementation of government schemes were reviewed.
Following a presentation by the District Education Officer, Supongmeren questioned the reasons for the disparity in academic performance. The Education Department cited shortage of subject teachers and other operational challenges. He stressed the need to strengthen foundational, primary and elementary education, observing that government schools continued to lag despite comparatively better facilities and higher salaries.
The meeting also discussed timely distribution of textbooks and uniforms, teacher rationalisation and the deployment of substitute teachers. Officials said delays in supplying learning materials affected students, while ready-made uniforms often did not fit properly. Supongmeren urged departments to improve coordination and ensure effective implementation of development programmes.
The Transport Department briefed the meeting on road safety initiatives and the PM-RAHAT scheme. As no applications had been received from Zunheboto, the MP called for greater public awareness to help accident victims access the scheme’s benefits.
In Phek, the DISHA Committee meeting was held on November 9 at the DC Office Complex under Supongmeren’s chairmanship. He urged members to suggest measures to improve development activities and government schemes, particularly those benefiting farmers.
The District Horticulture Officer briefed the meeting on kiwi cultivation. Responding to the MP’s query on foreign varieties, the officer said a team of scientists from New Zealand would visit the district to introduce specialised farming techniques and suitable varieties.
The meeting also reviewed the PM-RAHAT scheme, which provides cashless treatment of up to Rs.1.5 lakh for road accident victims during the critical golden hour, for a maximum of seven days. Supongmeren urged the Transport Department to conduct awareness campaigns across the district.
On power supply, the Executive Engineer briefed the meeting on smart meter installation and construction of a 33 kV weasel conductor line to strengthen the district’s power infrastructure.
Supongmeren and Deputy Commissioner Rhosietho Ngouri directed the department and contractor to complete the ongoing works before the forthcoming Christmas season.
