North East Institute of Social Science and Research (NEISSR) organised “We Knit 2019” on May 4, under the theme “NGO’s in Nagaland: Challenges and Ways Forward” at DBIDL Hall, Don Bosco Campus.
Delivering the key note address, director, Indigenous Cultural Society (ICS), and chairman of Nagaland NGO Forum (NNGOF), Dr. Hesheto Chishi stated that Nagaland has a total number of 30,000 non-governmental organisations (NGO), when re-examined, only 293 are registered under the Government of India. Out of the 293 registered NGO’s, he opined that only 40 to 50 NGOs were genuinely functioning.
He also stated that according to 2011 census, every 66 person has one NGO, which meant that every year 545 NGOs were registered in Nagaland govt. He further remarked that there were about 6,20,000 NGOs, in India.
Chishi also stated that according to the UN survey conducted in 1995, there were 29,000 international NGOs, wherein one should understand that NGOs are categorised into local, national and international.
Chishi also viewed that Nagas have no clear view of what NGO is and that it was important to know the difference between an NGO and civil society, so there is no confusion.
According to Chishi, NGOs have to assist the government to address issues, keeping in mind the purpose of NGOs. He marked that while some NGOs are relief and service oriented, others were religion or secular oriented and public and private oriented.
Chishi concluded his address by stating “Love life, do good, live well” and persuaded the participants to join hands and work together if we love Nagaland.
The gathering also witnessed a panel discussion on different topics and functions related to the working and functioning of NGO, moderated by assistant professor, NEISSR, Imnuksungla Pongen.
The panellist included assistant general manager, NABARD, Nagaland RO, Dimapur, S. Hrangkhoi, who spoke on the topic, “Financial inclusion and sustainability of NGOs”, while “Strategic leadership and good governance of NGO’s”, was addressed by director, Miqlat Ministry, Dimapur, Asha Sanchu.
On “Network with government, organizations and community”, the topic was addressed by director, Prodigal’s Home, Dimapur, K. Ela and “Social welfare programmes and schemes and partnership of NGOs” was delivered by state co-rdinator, State Resource Centre for Women, Nagaland, Gracy Aye.
Other panellists included assistant general manager, NABARD, Nagaland RO, Dimapur, S. Hrangkhoi, director, Miqlat Ministry, Dimapur, Asha Sanchu and director, Prodigal’s Home, Dimapur, K. Ela.
A special number was performed by NEISSR Music Club and the NEISSR anthem sung by the NEISSR choir.
Earlier, the programme was compeered by Jeffry Remruot and Imtoisenla Kubzari, while invocation offered by SDB Emeritus, Prof. Fr. AJ Sebastian.
Inaugural speech was delivered by principal, NEISSR, Dr. Fr. CP Anto and vote of thanks and benediction proposed by vice principal administrator, NEISSR, Rev. Fr, John Latsutho Poji.