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As PDA government enters third year, chief minister reminds his team that privilege comes with great responsibilities
Dimapur, March 9 (EMN): On completion of two years since the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) came to power in Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio acknowledged the blessings of God and the mandate of the people; and reminded his team that there is much more to be done for the people.
To commemorate the completion of two years of ‘peace, progress and development’, the PDA organised a thanksgiving event at Niathu Resort in Chümoukedima on Monday, according to a DIPR report.
Speaking at the event, Rio said: "We are privileged. And this privilege comes with a lot of responsibilities, particularly our society; because we have so many long-pending issues, many issues to be resolved and also policies for the future for the wellbeing of our people.”
He reminded that the PDA team has worked together, through thick and thin, coming across many challenges and overcoming hurdles in the past two years.
Rio asserted: "We have much more work to do, and have to work with commitment as given in the Common Minimum Programme.”
The chief minister reiterated that the PDA government's topmost priority is the Naga political issue. On this, he reminded that a core committee of the Joint Legislators’ Forum has been formed to approach the different Naga political groups, and also to consult with the mass-based civil societies, NGOs; and to appeal to them not to miss the opportunity of an Indo-Naga settlement.
Rio expressed concern over the spread of Covid-19, which has now even reached the Northeast region.
He was hopeful that the virus would not affect the state of Nagaland while assuring that all necessary measures are being taken, and the Health and Family Welfare department is doing its best.
The report stated that the chief minister also spoke on the issues of ILP, RIIN and relaxation of land laws; and assured to continue to take up all developmental activities.
Rio expressed gratitude to the officers led by the chief secretary and asserted that while government frames policies and provides ideas, it is the bureaucracy that implements and executes the programmes and policies. “Without them, we cannot achieve anything,” Rio said.
"Today, as we celebrate the second anniversary of PDA government, I thank my colleagues, alliance partners and the public for reposing faith on me. I can function provided you give your support and cooperation and together we can work for the welfare of our people and continue to work in harmony to complete the full term,” the chief minister said.
Marking the occasion, the ‘PDA achievement booklet’ was also released.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, in his short speech, congratulated the chief minister; stating that the PDA government has successfully completed two years in office under his visionary leadership.
"Two years ago, we have come together to form the PDA government with the mandate of the people, and committed to provide strong and stable government and to deliver good governance to the people; and BJP assures to continue to work with trust and mutual respect even in the days to come," Patton maintained.
He further said that the PDA government appreciates people's participation in delivering good governance in the state.
"As we celebrate two years of PDA government in office, let us reaffirm, rededicate to work harder for more glorious distinction,” Patton challenged.
Co-chairman of PDA, Minister Temjen Imna Along, who also spoke on the occasion, expressed optimism that the PDA government would complete the 5-year term as mandated by the people.
"We resolve to go on together, not only to serve the people but also to give good governance to the people. Each and every department should try to do our best so that governance reaches to all the people," Along maintained.
“Let us all be united for the other three years to come, and be at the forefront, for we want peace and prosperity,” he said.
Chief Secretary Temjen Toy noted that significant achievements have been made in the past two years in promoting tourism, sports, music, and improving roads. He congratulated the PDA government for keeping the commitments on which they came to power.
The chief secretary reminded that it is incumbent upon all to work with sincerity, reaching greater heights in serving the people.
State Chaplain, Rev. TW Yamyap Konyak shared a message from the Bible.
Chairman of PDA Chingwang Konyak delivered the welcome address, while the outgoing chaplain, Rev. Kuzierang Thou invoked God's blessings and read the scripture.
Nagaland Chamber Choir enthralled the gathering with a special song.