ULB election must for development in urban areas, says Nagaland minister

Our Correspondent
Mokokchung, Oct. 1 (EMN): The minister for Public Works Department (Housing and Mechanical), Tongpang Ozukum, on Friday stated that election to the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) should be held “if we want development in urban areas”.

Addressing the 43rd General Conference of Langpangkong Tzukong Mundang (LTM) at Anu Mai Amphitheatre in Chuchuyimlang village, Mokokchung, the minister pointed out that the 15 Finance Commission had clearly said that development grants and funds will be freezed unless the election to the ULBs is held.

In this connection, he said “we are missing a lot of good opportunities by firmly opposing this provision, therefore, appealed to the people to ponder upon this issue seriously”.

“I feel that demanding reservation for the development of towns and the municipal area is justified,” he continued.

Stating that the Covid-19 pandemic has made the people realise the need to go back to the land for self reliance and a sustainable future, Ozukum urged the gathering to retrace ‘how our forefathers advocated dignity of labour by giving more importance to developing our land resource which is in our disposal’.

He also assured that the three MLAs from the range, including him, would pursue the state government to recognise the status of Chuchu town and Tzudikong as full-fledged Town Committee Councils since the population has reached its maturity compared to its counterparts in the state.

The minister further congratulated the villages in the range that achieved 100% Covid vaccination and urged the remaining villages to get the jab for public safety.

‘Follow the scientific and experts’ advice instead of being fooled by social media rumours,’ he stated.

Advisor for Industries & Commerce, Labour & Employment and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Imnatiba encouraged the delegates to “appreciate and value others’ worthy achievements just as we praise ourselves”.

He added that ‘valuing our and others achievements on the same scale would usher in an era of unity among the different tribes, clans etc.’

Speaking at the event, MLA Amenba Yaden said that ‘our forefathers were farsighted and achieved many milestones with limited resources’ and urged the delegates to strive higher.

Speaker of the conference, Spongnenba Longkumer, Director CEC, Dimapur, said that ‘instead of living a long life without doing anything, it is better to accomplish something for the society in our short span of life; that will be cherished by all and leave an everlasting legacy’.

It may be mentioned that the new team of LTM will be led by President Marsanen (Merangkong) and General Secretary R Nukshi (Yaongyimsen) for the tenure of 2021-24.