Secure Dimapur for Nagaland’s growth, urges Along
Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along inaugurated the much-anticipated Dimapur Night Carnival (DNC) 2024 on December 12 at the Dimapur District Sports Council (DDSC) Complex.
The event, jointly organized by Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC), Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), Dimapur district administration will run until December 16.
Along, while addressing the gathering, commended the people of Dimapur, the district administration, and the police for their instrumental role in ensuring the success of the Hornbill Festival 2024. He emphasized Dimapur’s pivotal position as the economic and cultural hub of Nagaland, contributing significantly to the festival’s success.
The minister also lauded the DMC’s role in safeguarding the health and well-being of Dimapur’s residents and expressed hope that the elected councilors would be guided with wisdom.
He also raised concerns about anti-social elements exploiting the city under various pretexts, which he said were harming Dimapur’s business environment and diverting opportunities to neighboring regions.
Addressing concerns about unabated taxation at Dimapur gates, he revealed reports of truck drivers being coerced into paying illegal taxes, even during the Hornbill Festival, when government goods were being transported.
He called for decisive action to curb such practices and stressed that Dimapur’s economic stability was crucial for Nagaland’s overall growth. “We should not be afraid to speak the truth to make our people understand that the rising need of our people, to have an economic stability, and strength for the state, will only come about if the business establishments and Dimapur is secure,” he asserted.
He stressed that securing Dimapur’s business environment was key to Nagaland’s progress, urging the DMC, police, and district administration to take decisive actions against anti-social activities.
On the issue of Inner Line Permit (ILP), Along reassured non-Naga residents, clarifying that the ILP aims to regulate illegal immigration and not to displace law-abiding residents who contribute to Nagaland’s socio-economic fabric.
Congratulating the organizers, Along expressed hope that the carnival would foster vibrant business activity and urged attendees to participate responsibly. The program began with Matsung Ozukum as chairperson, an invocation by Pastor Kenei Kiso, and a welcome address by Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the Dimapur Night Carnival, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang.
Special performances were delivered by Ying P and Temjenchuba Ozukum. The Dimapur Night Carnival promises five days of cultural vibrancy, economic activity, and community bonding.