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Dimapur, May 31 (EMN): Considering the enormous impact on the economy caused by the nationwide lockdown imposed by the government to contain the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic since March 25 last, Business Association of Nagas (Ban) has appealed to landlords to either waive or grant discount on rent to Naga entrepreneurs.
BAN’s statement through its media cell stated the economy has been badly hurt and businesses have suffered in the state with very little or in many cases with no income since the lockdown started on March 25. As most Naga entrepreneurs do not run big businesses but employ thousands of fellow Nagas and support their livelihood, BAN stated that paying rent, salaries and other bills have become a major challenge. It added that for most Naga entrepreneurs, as of now, it is not about making profits but a question of survival of their businesses.
BAN was happy to know that some landlords had waived off rent of their tenants. However, understanding that some landlords might depend on rental income for their livelihoods, BAN requested to all landlords to either waive or grant 50% discount on rent to Naga entrepreneurs at least till the lockdown period is over. It also urged those landlords, who had taken bank loan, to avail the moratorium till August 31 as announced by the
government.
It was of their opinion that helping Naga entrepreneurs, who are mostly young and first generation businessmen, would go a long way in displaying goodwill and brotherhood, adding that it would also encourage the entrepreneurs and help them sustain their businesses.
“By cutting down on the rent they can ensure basic salaries to thousands of Naga families and dependents whose sole source is their meagre salary,” Ban stated.
BAN further appealed to fellow Nagas to promote and buy from struggling new businesses, especially local vendors during this time of the pandemic. It urged all Nagas to help each other to enable Nagaland have a vibrant and sustainable economy, which in turn would create jobs for the youth.