Celebration to calibration

Now that the dust and din of political activity have finally settled following the merger of the erstwhile Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) with the Naga People’s Front (NPF), Nagaland stands at a defining juncture. The much-anticipated merger-welcomed by some, ignored by others, and viewed with skepticism by a few-has further solidified the oppositionless government as one body. It marks not just a political consolidation, but a moment that offers opportunity to address governance. The pressing question, however, is- will this new alignment translate into meaningful reform, or will it simply reinforce the old complacencies that have long held Nagaland back? The time for celebration is over; the time for calibration must begin. What Nagaland needs today is not ceremonial unity but purposeful action. Political consolidation must now be matched by administrative renewal and developmental urgency. The recent monsoon rains exposed, once again, the fragility of the state’s infrastructure-roads washed away, bridges rendered impassable, and highways blocked or reduced to potholes. The much-touted four-lane highway project, envisioned as the lifeline of the state, continues to languish without meaningful progress, beyond Piphema. The lamentable state of roadwork throughout Nagaland reflects not a lack of expertise, but a lack of accountability, supervision, and standards. Nagaland is not short of qualified engineers, supervisors, or administrators. What is lacking is a culture of responsibility. Engineers and superintending engineers must be held accountable for certifying road quality before funds are released. Political leaders, too, must resist the temptation to fast-track disbursements for political gain. Development cannot be achieved through shortcuts; it demands diligence, discipline, and integrity. Equally disheartening is the state’s power sector. Inadequate funding and internal inefficiencies have made electricity a luxury rather than a necessity. Many field staff lack basic equipment, vehicles and supplies to effectively respond to outages or emergencies. Without reliable electricity, no industrial, educational, or healthcare institution can function effectively. Power is the foundation of progress, yet the system remains crippled due to internal problems. There is also a malaise runs deeper than broken roads and power lines; the erosion of work culture and governance ethics. The frequent protests and strikes by employees across departments reflect not just grievances but a systemic collapse of accountability. Governance today appears more about managing discontent than delivering reform. While the government must address employee concerns, it must also restore discipline and performance as the cornerstones of public service. Nagaland’s administrative system requires nothing less than a complete overhaul. Merit must replace patronage, and performance must outweigh loyalty. The entrenched culture of rewarding political allegiance over competence has paralyzed efficiency. Public service is a trust, not a privilege-and that trust has been eroded. Yet, the transformation cannot be confined to the corridors of power. Systemic change must begin with the people. Corruption thrives not only in offices but also at the ballot box, where voters sell their conscience for temporary gain. Citizens who trade their mandate for money or favour, forfeit their right to demand accountability. Civic morality and public integrity must evolve together. Nagaland today needs more than political peace-it needs moral clarity, administrative integrity, and collective renewal. The merger of political forces should not merely consolidate power; it must consolidate purpose and vision. It is time that the state rise above slogans and symbolism, and embrace calibrated reform-where rules are respected, work is valued, and governance is once again restored as a public trust.