Union minister for Human Resource and Development, Smirti Zubin Irani on Friday inaugurated the Mahatma Gandhi Academy of Human Development (MGAHD) at Chuchuyimlang, Mokokchung district.
The academy is a joint initiative of Natwar Thakkar, founder Nagaland Gandhi Ashram (NGA) Chuchuyimlang and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai.
In her brief address, Irani was all praise for NGA founder, Natwar Thakkar’s initiative and determination to setup such an institution. Irani said she was amazed that Natwar-bhai, from one corner of the country could come to another corner to setup such an institution and impart education.
Irani said such prestigious institute would not only benefit the Nagas but the North Eastern region and the country as a whole.
The minister also highlighted the programmes/schemes and initiative under taken by the Government of India. She also stressed on the Mudra Scheme which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jharkhand on Friday. Irani encouraged and enlightened the youngsters to take part in the Prime Minister Mudra Bank Yojna, which provides loans for upcoming entrepreneurs and youths to establish themselves as employed citizens and build a self sufficient future. The scheme allows people to take loans up to Rs. 10 lakh to start businesses.
The minister also laid the foundation stone of the Academy followed by public reception.
Addressing the gathering, Nagaland chief minister T.R. Zeliang expressed gratitude to union HRD minister for taking her time out to inaugurate the MGAHD.
Zeliang said Irani’s presence showed the great importance that the Centre attaches to the development of Human Resources, particularly towards skilling the rural youth of Nagaland. He also sought Irani’s support and patronage to make the academy an educational hub.
Zeliang also took the opportunity to reiterate the formal invitation sent Irani to attend the Hornbill Festival 2015 as the chief guest.
The chief minister, also lauded Natwar Thakkar for establishing he NGA in 1955, during one of the darkest and most difficult period of the Naga political struggle.
Since then, Zeliang said he has been tirelessly and selflessly working among the rural people of Nagaland, with a view to uplift their living conditions.
He acknowledged the contributions made by NGA and congratulated Thakkar on completing 60 years of service to the people of the State.
“Nothing could have been more rewarding for a dedicated social worker like Thakkar than to be able to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of the humble Gandhi Ashram he had started in this remote corner of India,” he said.
He said the Ashram pioneered in implementing various programmes like modern bee keeping which was later adopted by the State government, under Nagaland Bee & Honey Mission.
Zeliang lauded the Chuchuyimlang Village Council and the citizens for their exemplary wisdom and foresight by donating 232 acres of land in the picturesque location, without any cost or condition.
Others present at the inaugural programme includes- Nuklutoshi, minister, Highways, Mechanical & Elections; Prof. S. Parasuraman, director, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, Lt. Gen (Retd) S. Mehta, CEO, Hans Foundation, New Delhi; Mar Atsongchanger, Executive Secretary, ABAM & president NBCC; Sanen Pongen chairman, Chuchuyimlang village council.