Even as the debate over the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act intensifies, Labor, Employment & Skill Development and Excise adviser Moatoshi Longkumer said alcohol consumption was a personal choice that could not be dictated by any government order.
Interacting with the media on the sidelines of laying of foundation stone for Nemcare Sakus Institute and Hospital at Sakus Mission College on Thursday, he remarked that an individual would inevitably find a way to consume alcohol. Hence, he called for a more personal approach to deal with the situation.
“Let us not give an order not to drink. Let this be a personal choice of the individual,” he stated.
He reiterated his earlier position favouring repealing of the NLTP Act, though he was quick to clarify that he was not speaking on behalf of the state government.
He also highlighted the various challenges faced by authorities concerned in effectively patrolling the numerous border areas of Dimapur, while underscoring the severe health risks associated with the consumption of illicit alcohol. Despite the implementation of the NLTP Act since 1989, Longkumer observed that alcohol remained easily accessible throughout the state. Hence, he pointed out how neighbouring Assam was reaping benefits from its enforcement.
He contended that any societal issue in the state ultimately pertained to the betterment of society at large, asserting that by prioritising health and resource generation, substantial progress could be achieved.
Asked about the possibility of the state government convening a special Assembly session vis-à-vis the NLTP Act, he stated that it all depended on higher authorities.
Meanwhile, asked on the steps initiated to foster entrepreneurship among the state’s youth, Longkumer informed the media about a recent conclave he had attended at Guwahati where a new skill development programme centre on drone technology was unveiled.
He had recently attended the North Eastern Region Skill & Entrepreneurship Conclave in Guwahati.
He claimed that he had requested Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Electronics & Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar for establishment of a drone technology school in Nagaland.
He hoped that it would provide a platform for tech-savvy young Nagas to receive comprehensive training.
The adviser underscored the growing significance of drones in various aspects of life, carting examples of drone’s usage such as disaster management, emergency medical supply deliveries, and mapping of critical areas.
He emphasised that the integration of drone technology could not only offer substantial income opportunities but also equip Naga youth with indispensable.
