Think Tanks: Catalysts for Positive Peace and Sustainable Development in Nagaland

As each war is waged with the hope of being “the war to end all wars,” so too should Nagaland’s strive to end the persistent cycle of underdevelopment, tensions, and stagnation that has challenged the state for decades. Imagine a future where challenges like economic dependency, ethnic tensions, and limited healthcare are addressed systematically. This can be realised through the establishment of independent think tanks and the implementation of strategic, evidence-based policies. In a region where complex social, economic, and political issues require thoughtful analysis and innovative approaches, independent think tanks are essential in offering multi-dimensional solutions and fostering sustainable development.

Think tanks are independent, non-partisan research organisations that provide insight, analysis, and policy recommendations across various sectors. Their value lies in their capacity to engage in research that is not constrained by political or governmental pressures. They play a pivotal role in shaping public policy by bridging the gap between academic research and real-world policy solutions, actionable strategies for governance and serve as essential intermediaries between civil society and government, offering research-based recommendations without political or economic biases.

In Nagaland, such think tanks can play a transformative role by bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the state’s unique challenges, ranging from the lingering effects of armed conflict, ethnic tensions to the need for economic diversification and sustainable development and bridge the gaps between various stakeholders. The concept is not new; globally, think tanks have helped countries address deep-rooted challenges, from social inclusion to conflict resolution, by offering research-backed, long-term solutions.

According to experts like Merilee S. Grindle, think tanks can act as intermediaries among academia, policy-makers, and civil society, ensuring that the voices of local communities are heard in policy discussions. Their ability to generate objective research and analysis becomes even more significant in a state like Nagaland, where development policies often face criticism for being top-down and disconnected from local realities. By engaging in strategic policy-making, think tanks could ensure the voices of local communities are heard. By creating evidence-based policy recommendations, they can guide and provide the intellectual backbone necessary to guide the state’s political leaders towards informed and inclusive governance, thus paving the way for sustainable and people-centric growth.

Strategic policy-making is the art of designing long-term policies that address fundamental issues while reflecting the people’s aspirations. For Nagaland, this approach must prioritise economic sustainability, conflict resolution, social inclusion, and peace building. In a complex socio-political environment, it is essential to identify core challenges and develop coherent policies that address underlying causes rather than mere symptoms. Effective policymaking for Nagaland involves looking beyond immediate concerns to create pathways toward a resilient and prosperous future for all communities and generations to come.

Renowned sociologist Johan Galtung’s concept of “Positive Peace” underscores this need. Galtung differentiates between “Negative Peace” (the mere absence of violence) and Positive Peace, which aims to address the root causes of division and conflict, and build societies grounded in justice, equality, and inclusivity to create just and harmonious societies. For Nagaland, facing issues like protracted ethnic tensions, political divisions, economic dependency and concerns over the NLPT Act have long affected the social cohesion. Galtung’s concept of Positive Peace is particularly relevant as it provides important insights that serve as a guiding principle for building social cohesion as it highlights the necessity of not only ending violence and its differences but also tackling the underlying causes that perpetuate division and conflict to achieve sustainable peace. Addressing these underlying issues can foster a cohesive society that transcends mere conflict avoidance to build unity and resilience.

The role of independent think tanks are vital in this endeavour, as they can create inclusive platforms for dialogue which can provide optimal solution, encouraging collaboration between stakeholders and formulating strategic policies that address complex societal challenges. Through rigorous research and engagement, they can contribute significantly to Nagaland’s journey towards Positive Peace by tackling historical grievances, promoting fairness, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Health and economic challenges in urban areas offer a clear lens for understanding Positive Peace in Nagaland. The state’s economy remains heavily reliant on imports and traditional agriculture, which limits economic diversification and stability. Think tanks can help identify new revenue streams and policy frameworks that build economic resilience, self-sufficiency and diversification, thereby reducing socio-economic inequalities. This approach not only boosts economic productivity but also strengthens social cohesion, aligning with the core values of Positive Peace as Galtung’s concept emphasises not only the absence of violence but the presence of social conditions that enable individuals and communities to flourish. Positive peace is achieved by creating structures and policies that promote equity, justice, and sustainable well-being, making it highly relevant to Nagaland’s development aspirations.

Urban health is another pillar of Positive Peace that demands attention. Issues like access to clean water, proper sanitation, and safe housing are essential for societal well-being. Health, as a pillar of Positive Peace, extends beyond the absence of diseases; it reflects a holistic state of physical, mental, and social well-being. Tackling urban health challenges is fundamental to realising Johan Galtung’s vision of a peaceful society where basic human needs are met, equity is prioritised, and social structures support sustainable development.

Independent think tanks have an instrumental role in advancing urban health by offering research-based insights into urban planning, environmental health, and accessible healthcare. By emphasising sustainable urban planning, pollution control, and the preservation of green spaces, think tanks drive policies that promote health equity and improve living conditions for all residents. These strategies are not merely about health, they lay the structural foundation for a peaceable society where communities can flourish.

Moreover, a healthy urban population has far-reaching benefits, boosting economic productivity, enhancing social cohesion, and elevating the overall quality of life-all essential components of Positive Peace. A robust urban health framework catalyses economic growth, fosters social stability, and even helps to reduce crime rates. Think tanks can provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers, guiding investments in health infrastructure, preventive care, and public health education that serve dual purposes, enhancing Positive Peace and stimulating economic development.

In Nagaland, think tanks can bridge the gap between healthcare providers, urban planners, and environmental experts, fostering a collaborative approach to policymaking. By focusing on policies that elevate the quality of life and ensure residents’ long-term well-being, this collaborative model addresses both structural and social prerequisites for peace. Such initiatives help to create urban environments that are not only healthier but also more socially cohesive and resilient, laying the groundwork for a harmonious and prosperous Nagaland.

Through these collective efforts, Nagaland can emerge as a leader in Positive Peace, demonstrating how urban health and strategic policy making can transform society. By championing initiatives that enhance urban health, think tanks will not only improve individual lives but also help cultivate cities that embody resilience, social harmony, and long-term prosperity.

The establishment of think tanks in Nagaland is not without challenges, particularly in terms of financial and infrastructural resources. However, there are pathways to overcoming these obstacles:

Collaboration with Academic Institutions: Partnerships with universities and research centres can foster knowledge-sharing, provide funding access, and build a culture of intellectual inquiry in the state.

Local Ownership and Sustainability: Think tanks must be locally driven, ensuring their research reflects the needs and aspirations of Nagaland’s people. Capacity-building and local talent development are essential for this.

Grants and Public-Private Partnerships: Support in the form of government schemes, international development agencies, and local businesses can create mutual incentives and strengthen funding for sustainable operations.

Digital Platforms and Virtual Collaboration: By utilising digital tools, think tanks can share insights widely and engage with national and international experts, reducing geographical constraints.

Community Engagement and Social Media Outreach: Sharing research findings with the public increases awareness and participation, fostering a culture of informed discourse on key issues and making citizens active participants in shaping the state’s future.

The dream of shaping Nagaland’s future requires a culture of informed, research-backed decision-making. Independent think tanks, while facing resource constraints, offer a practical and sustainable path toward development. By driving strategic policies based on rigorous research and engaging diverse voices, they can lay the foundation for a resilient and prosperous Nagaland.

Through collective efforts, Nagaland could emerge as a beacon of Positive Peace in the region, demonstrating how thoughtful policy-making and inclusive governance can transform society. Supporting the establishment of these think tanks, whether through public advocacy or financial partnerships, will be an investment in the future, a step toward a Nagaland where peace and progress go hand in hand.

Witenthuibo Chawang,

Postgraduate Student, International Relations,

North East Christian University, Dimapur.