Need of people-centric vision

Nagaland has experienced a rollercoaster of economic ups and downs since the 1970s. The introduction of central government schemes during this period was a significant milestone, but the officers responsible for implementing these schemes were inexperienced and unprepared to guide their direction, pace, and obligation. Despite these limitations, they demonstrated commitment and dedication to their work, doing their best to drive the state’s development forward. The visionaries of the 1960s and 1970s played a crucial role in shaping Nagaland’s economic development. They were practical in their approach, with a deep understanding of the situation on the ground. This enabled them to choose and adopt policies that benefited the larger public, rather than simply creating impressive document visions. Their approach was characterized by a willingness to adapt and evolve, much like a wise tailor who cuts cloth according to the size and needs of the individual. This pragmatic approach allowed them to steer the state on a path of development, establishing industries such as sugar mills, paper mills, veneer mills, fruit canning factories, and weaving mills. These industries were not only pivotal to the state’s economy but also provided employment opportunities for the local population. However, the introduction of central government concepts in the 1980s and 1990s, which were often inconsistent with ground reality, led to the mushrooming of small-scale industries that ultimately failed. The promoters of these industries, who were given subsidies and price preferences, were the only ones who profited, while the industries themselves eventually came to a halt. From the 1990s, there was a marked and significant shift in Nagaland’s economic landscape, with the emergence of economic blueprints. This led to the creation of vision documents that were impressive and highlighted the minds behind them. Although these documents were often borrowed or copied from other sources, they drew attention to the importance of planning and development. However, these visions were not always tailored to the state’s specific needs, and as a result, they failed to deliver the desired outcomes. In the 2000s, the state witnessed the emergence of new vision documents that were impressive and brilliant but often sounded good only on paper. These ideas were varied, ranging from promoting indigenous produce to technology-driven projects. Today, Nagaland’s development is a mixed bag, with a focus on promoting indigenous products and start-ups that are not necessarily labor-intensive. The state has had its share of visionaries, both from the executive and legislative branches, who have contributed to its growth. However, for these projects to succeed, the basic requirements for promoting economic development must be in place, such as electricity, good road, rail, and air connectivity, and good governance. These essential infrastructure and governance components are crucial in creating a conducive climate for progress and prosperity. There is need to review all past policies and document visions in understanding which path to take. Obviously a people-centric vision away from cronyism is the need of the day. Ultimately, the success of Nagaland’s economic development depends on the ability of its leaders to provide a stable and supportive environment that allows businesses to thrive and creates opportunities for the local population.