The Mokokchung Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) has commended the Department of Personnel & Administrative Reforms for its notification (No. PER/VIG-1/32/12/2021, dated Kohima, 4th March 2025) cautioning government employees against engaging in private sector employment.
In a statement, the trade body described the directive as a much-needed step to uphold the integrity of public service, ensure fair business competition, and promote a healthy economic ecosystem in Nagaland.
The MCCI said it firmly believed that restricting government employees from participating in private business ventures was crucial for several reasons, which included ensuring government efficiency and integrity.
Noting that government employees were entrusted with the responsibility of serving the public with dedication and impartiality, it cautioned that any involvement in private business interests could lead to conflicts of interest, misallocation of time, and possible misuse of official resources.
By reinforcing service conduct rules, the government ensured that employees remained fully committed to their official duties, enhancing overall governance efficiency.
Further, the trade body felt that this would encourage a fair and competitive business environment: When government employees engaged in private businesses, it created an uneven playing field where undue influence and favoritism might prevail.
By strictly enforcing Section 15(1) of the Nagaland Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1968, the trade body maintained that the government was promoting a fair and competitive market, allowing independent entrepreneurs to thrive without undue interference or unfair advantages enjoyed by those in official positions.
According to the MCCI, the move would also boost local entrepreneurship and employment.
It maintained that a business ecosystem free from government employee intervention would create greater opportunities for local entrepreneurs and youth seeking self-employment.
The move ensured that business ownership and economic opportunities remained open for genuine entrepreneurs, thus contributing to the growth of Nagaland’s economy and the generation of sustainable employment.
Finally, this would also prevent unethical business practices. As the misuse of official positions to promote private enterprises was detrimental to ethical business practices, the trade body said the notification would help curb such tendencies, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The MCCI urged all government employees to adhere strictly to the provisions of the notification and refrain from engaging in private employment without proper authorization. It assured that the business community remained committed to working alongside the government to promote economic growth, entrepreneurship, and a transparent business environment.
Appreciating the government for its proactive measures, the MCCI assured its continued support in ensuring a robust and ethical business ecosystem for the betterment of the state.
MCCI said it also expected the government to implement the notification and the relevant rules therein in letter and spirit.