Correspondent
KOHIMA, OCT 21 (NPN): Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye, called on the people of Eastern Nagaland to prioritise unity, employment generation and responsible utilisation of resources as the region moves towards the proposed Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).
Addressing the 25th year anniversary celebration of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Union Kohima (EPUK) at Capital Cultural Hall, PR Hill, Kohima, on October 20, Kenye said the proposed FNTA had come at a crucial juncture and offered an opportunity for the people of Eastern Nagaland to chart a new course towards economic growth and collective progress.
He urged the people to learn from past experiences and focus on creating employment opportunities and sustainable development. Reflecting on earlier generations, Kenye said they worked together despite differences in roles and approaches, but expressed concern that the growing emphasis on financial gain had weakened traditional values and community spirit.
Kenye cautioned that the pursuit of money had contributed to corruption, misappropriation and extortion, and called for a return to the principles of honesty, integrity and accountability. He stressed that the opportunities presented by the proposed FNTA should not be squandered by repeating the mistakes of the past.
Emphasising prudent utilisation of resources, he said funds made available under the proposed arrangement should be invested in sustainable industries and employment-generating ventures for the younger generation. Referring to the closure or failure of several industrial projects, including sugar mills, cement factories and paper mills, he noted that past development initiatives had not always yielded lasting economic benefits.
He therefore called for future projects to be planned with clear objectives and long-term outcomes, noting that development should focus on creating sustainable livelihoods rather than short-term gains.
Clarifying that his remarks were not intended as criticism of previous generations, Kenye said the experiences of the past should serve as valuable lessons for the future.
He also underscored the importance of preserving Naga unity, describing Eastern Nagaland as an integral part of the larger Naga community. He urged the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) and the people of the region to work together with a shared vision and common purpose.
According to Kenye, the success of the proposed FNTA would depend not only on the powers and resources granted to it but also on the integrity, wisdom and unity with which they were utilised.
Meanwhile, chief host and minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change and Village Guards, CL John, expressed appreciation to all those who had contributed to the growth of EPUK over the past 25 years.
Describing EPUK as a relatively young organisation, John encouraged members to continue strengthening the organisation and serve the community. He also paid tribute to past and present members, remembering those who had passed away and acknowledging the contributions of individuals who had helped shape the organisation’s journey.
Others who spoke at the programme included ENPO vice-president Andrew Tikhir, Y. Lima Onen Chang MLA, APO president Thejao Vihienuo and former EPUK president Kekongchim Yim.
Earlier, the programme was compered by Runshito and Dr Tovikali Yepthomi. The invocation was offered by secretary, finance and property, Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), Rev. S Noksa Chiu, while the welcome address was delivered by EPUK president and planning committee convenor N. Toshi Chang. The jubilee prayer was led by Rev. Thsadongse on behalf of ENPO pastors in Kohima. The jubilee souvenir was released by the special guest. Special performances were presented by the Konyak Baptist Bumeinok Kohima Choir and Elate Fusion. The vote of thanks was delivered by EPUK general secretary Shahsha L. Menhahu, while the benediction was pronounced by Atsüla, women pastor, TBCK, on behalf of ENPO women pastors in Kohima.