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KOHIMA — Admitting prevalence of tribal colours taking centre stage in the Naga society particularly on matters pertaining to development, the advisor of School Education and SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, on Friday emphasised the necessity to streaming new agenda aimed at enhancing the living standards of the people and improving the social and economic indicators across the state.
Highlighting the challenges raised by various groups and different tribes on pertinent issues confronting the state, he has stressed on the need to address those problems effectively.
In an exclusive interview with this newspaper after casting his vote for the 18th Lok Sabha election in Dapfhütsumia Khel in Kohima village on Friday, Dr. Yhome underscored the significance of active participation in national politics. He emphasised the importance of participating in national politics, highlighting the circumstances of Nagaland as a small state with a government and opposition-less mandate.
Speaking on the challenges raised by various groups of people and different tribes, he stressed the need to address them effectively by streaming new agendas aimed at enhancing the living standards of the people and improving social and economic indicators across the state.
When asked about specific initiatives or policies they aim to implement if their candidate was elected, Dr. Yhome highlighted the importance of amplifying the voice of Nagaland at the centre. Additionally, he underscored the importance of fostering a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with the central government to address the state's dependency on central assistance.
The advisor highlighted the need for their elected representative to effectively represent the state's interests and collaborate closely with the central government to work towards common goals.
When reflecting on the polling trends in Kohima village over the years, Yhome noted a disparity in enthusiasm between parliamentary and assembly elections within his constituency. While assembly elections typically witness sustained engagement and participation over months, he observed that parliamentary elections often encounter a lackadaisical attitude among voters in the state.
He observed that while assembly elections involve prolonged campaigning, the condensed timeframe of parliamentary campaigns might affect voter turnout negatively.
Dr. Yhome noted that because assembly elections have longer campaigns, people get more involved, while the parliamentary elections being shorter, some people might not be as interested resulting in lower voter turnout.
When asked about the hospitality extended by the Kohima villagers towards visiting polling parties and visitors, Dr. Yhome has appreciated the proactive role of the village council and respective khel councils. Noting their active involvement in organising such events and emphasising their commitment to maintaining clean elections, he expressed satisfaction with the support provided by all concerned in ensuring necessary arrangements for polling officials.
While acknowledging the involvement of political parties, he reiterated on the proactive efforts of the village elders, leaders and members, indicating his contentment with their contributions towards facilitating smooth electoral processes.