Institutions engage youth on ILP through seminar and debate

Two academic institutions—MGM College and Fazl Ali College (FAC)—recently hosted student-centric programmes aimed at deepening understanding of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and its socio-political relevance in Nagaland.
On October 18, the Departments of Political Science and History, MGM College, organized a panel discussion on the theme “Understanding the Inner Line Permit: Historical Background, Contemporary Relevance and Policy Perspectives in Nagaland” at the college auditorium. The programme began with an exhortation and welcome address by Principal Dr. R.K. Behera, who emphasized the importance of informed perspectives on regional issues.
Panelists included Fuchumo Yanthan (HoD, History), Elithang M. Kikon (HoD, Sociology), Tsutsamo (Educator, Mahendra’s Institute, Dimapur), and A. Kailang (Assistant Professor, Political Science). The session was moderated by N. David Phom, Assistant Professor, History. Discussions covered ILP’s historical origins, its economic and political implications, and future policy considerations. An interactive Q&A session saw enthusiastic student participation, reflecting strong engagement with the topic. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Sungjemlila Jamir, Head, Department of Political Science, who urged students to uphold national integration and mutual respect.
Meanwhile, on October 17, the Political Science Association (PSA), Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, held its Introductory Programme-cum-2nd PSA Debate at the college auditorium. R. Sunep Pongen, alumnus and former president of Central Nagaland Students’ Association, served as guest, judge, and critic. In his address, Pongen described ILP as a safeguard introduced during the British era to protect indigenous communities, aligning with the 16-Point Agreement. He acknowledged challenges such as misuse by non-locals and its impact on industrial growth and tourism, while urging students to critically engage with such issues as future policymakers.
Best Debater Awards were conferred on Moameren A. Longkumer (1st), Witpong (2nd), and Yimdangjungla Jamir (3rd). Both events highlighted the role of youth in shaping informed discourse on key regional policies.