NPYF urges active women, youth role in VDBs

National People’s Youth Front (NPYF) has stressed the need for greater participation of women and youth in Village Development Boards (VDBs), underscoring their vital role in strengthening grassroots governance in Nagaland.
In a statement, NPYF Dimapur district president Zato Sumi said the VDB system, established under the Nagaland Village and Area Council Act, 1978 and guided by the VDB Model Rules, 1980, remains one of the most distinctive models of village-level governance, aimed at ensuring development by the people and for the people. He noted that every villager is a member of the VDB General Body, making it a democratic platform where decisions on development, funds and welfare are taken collectively. However, he emphasised that specific provisions exist to ensure active involvement of women and youth in the development process.
Zato pointed out that 25% of VDB funds are reserved for women and 20% for youth, while the remaining 55% is allocated for general development. He also highlighted that at least 25% representation for women in the VDB management committee is mandatory. He said these provisions enable women and youth to influence nearly 45% of development resources, making their participation essential for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Zato added that while the framework is already in place, meaningful change depends on active participation, urging women and youth to engage, ensure transparency, and contribute to decision-making at the village level.