NVKB chairman encourages entrepreneurship

KOHIMA — Expounding that employment opportunity in the government sector has reached a saturation point, chairman of Nagaland Khadi and Village Board (NVKB), Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu, on Thursday called upon the youth to venture into entrepreneurship for self-employment.

He stated this during the golden jubilee celebration of Rutsa Youth Organisation (RYO) held at Zieke, P Khel in Kohima village on the theme “Ignite the vision.” He recalled the time when individuals with just class 6 standards could secure gazette posts, while those passing class 3 to 4 were compelled to pursue government jobs.

However, with the ever growing numbers of educated youth, Dr. Keditsu has suggested the importance of career-oriented studies to get a government job. He cited instances where people in the mainland opted for industries, banking and corporate sectors for employment.

He expressed concern about the rising depression and frustration among youth due to present circumstances and urged both parents and children to consider entrepreneurship beyond government service.

Keditsu lauded RYO for conducting comprehensive census encompassing population, farmers, employment and unemployment within their clan.

Expressing a wish for other Nagas to adopt similar initiatives, he vowed to bring this to the chief minister’s attention.

Dr. Keditsu narrated instances of Rutsa clan members boldly participating in the May 16, 1951, Naga Plebiscite, highlighting the persistence of Naga issues and challenges in their land. He commended RYO for honouring individuals from their clan, who have excelled at district, state, northeast and national levels in diverse fields.

Dr. Keditsu further urged the youth to uphold the legacy of their pioneers for peaceful co-existence and mutual understanding to achieve greater heights.

Vilie-o Rutsa narrated the history of the Rutsa clan by detailing how they adopted Christianity and western education introduced by the British.

Emphasising the widespread presence of Rutsa members in villages such as Phekerkriema, Nerhema, Thizama, and Dimapur district, he encouraged them to express gratitude to the Almighty for His blessings. He advocated peaceful co-existence among the members.

Dr. Vilatuo, convener of the planning and organising committee, reported that they have successfully organised health camps, plantation drives, career guidance for students, Christmas carol events, charitable works, and other activities leading up to the golden jubilee.

Kethoneizo Rutsa, RYO president, presented the Rutsanuomia census 2023 (as of December 28, 2023), revealing that the community comprises approximately 220 households.

The population breakdown of the Rutsa clan stands at 868 with 412 males and 456 females. Notably, Yavilhoulie Rutsa, aged 81, is the eldest man, while Neiliehu-ü Rutsa, aged 93, is the eldest woman.

Among the 236 students, there are 6 in pre-school (below nursery), 19 in pre-primary (class A and B), 49 in primary (class 1-5), 44 in upper primary (class 6-8), 29 in high school (class 9-10), 32 in higher secondary (class 11-12), 25 in college, 9 in technical courses, 12 with master’s degrees, 3 theologians, 1 with a B.Ed degree, 2 with diplomas, 1 in nursing, and 1 as a fashion designer.

At the event, 109 members were conferred awards for academic excellence including a lifetime achievement award presented posthumously to Late Vimedo Rutsa for distinguished social services and as a founding member for educational enhancement in Rutsanuomia.

Additionally, 15 certificates of recognition were bestowed in the areas of social services, government services and games and sports.

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