Deputy commissioner Peren spells out development vision at ‘
Deputy commissioner Peren spells out development vision at ‘Agripreneurs Conclave’
Hiazu Meru, spelled out a development vision for Peren district during a two-day ‘Agripreneurs Conclave,’ organised by Pro Rural in collaboration with Quest Alliance, Bengaluru, at Ngam village under Nsong circle in Peren district.
Hiazu Meru speaking during the ‘Agripreneurs Conclave’ in
Ngam village.
DIMAPUR — The
deputy commissioner of Peren, Hiazu Meru, spelled out a development vision for
Peren district during a two-day ‘Agripreneurs Conclave,’ organised by Pro Rural
in collaboration with Quest Alliance, Bengaluru, at Ngam village under Nsong
circle in Peren district.
The DC, who inaugurated the conclave on February 26 as the
chief guest, shared his development vision for the district in the field of
education, health, economy and social issues, an update from Pro Rural stated.
Highlighting Peren district’s agricultural potential, Meru
encouraged the community to open up to the opportunities unfolding through
agriculture related activities.
According to the DC, the district faces challenges due to
inadequate planning, lack of facilities and teachers’ negligence. With
enrolment rates declining in the district, he stressed on infrastructure in
government schools and the districts’ only college.
The DC emphasised the importance of officials and village
councils working together to build proper facilities through convergence
initiatives. He also stressed the need for treatment protocols, departmental
adoption of hospitals and health centers and the introduction of mobile health
clinics.
He has appreciated Pro Rural’s health out-reach and
ambulance service, which is benefiting several villages.
On the economic front, he said that though agriculture
remains the district’s strength, yet the community at large is struggling with
market linkage. The DC pointed out that despite major markets in Dimapur and
Kohima, progress has been slow due to a lack of information, training, proper
planning and absence of work ethic.
He outlined initiatives such as the Green Peren branding by
the Agriculture department, planned outlets in Jalukie and the Bamboo Mission’s
market complex at Police Complex, Jalukie.
He encouraged young entrepreneurs to focus on value
addition, packaging and obtaining fast-track FSSAI certification. Meru also
emphasised the need for unity within the community and discouraged the selling
of land and urged NGOs, government departments, and the community to work
collectively for the holistic development of Peren district.
He further acknowledged the importance of organising the
conclave and commended Pro Rural for their works among the people in remote
rural villages.
Paul Lokho, director of Pro Rural, introduced the purpose of
the conclave, saying that it was part of an inclusive programming for rural
communities as often all opportunities go to people of urban areas, neglecting
the rural communities.
He shared that Ngam village was chosen as the venue due to
its strategic location at the border of Manipur and Assam and its potential to
showcase such programmes in remote regions.
The conclave aimed at providing more insights to young
farmers and community resource persons (CRP), to consolidate their learning and
introduce them to the Green Initiative of Quest Alliance’s ‘Skills to Succeed’
programme.
Joshila, CEO of the Farmers Producer Organisation (FPO)
formed under Pro Rural-NABARD partnership, presented a run-through of Pro
Rural’s initiatives in Peren district.
Short speeches were also delivered by special guests
including Lesehu Meru, senior regional coordinator of CASA, who urged
government officials, village leaders and organisations to collaborate in
improving the school infrastructure and management and road networks. He also
encouraged Pro Rural and Quest Alliance to continue their joint efforts in
supporting the community.
Vahnei Singson, programme coordinator of the Youth Programme
(Northeast Region) at Quest Alliance, reiterated Quest Alliance’s commitment to
fostering 21st-century skills for youth.
A representative from the CRP expressed gratitude to Pro
Rural for equipping them with not just agricultural training but also holistic
life-skills development.
Avonuo Kire, EAC of Nsong circle and guest of honour,
encouraged the community to seize the skill-training opportunities offered by
Pro Rural and work toward sustainable livelihood.
Chairman of Nzauna village, Masang Newme, expressed
gratitude to the deputy commissioner and the three extra assistant
commissioners for sparing their time to be present at the inaugural event. He
also thanked all the participants for their contributions toward the success of
the conclave.
Chairman of Ngam village, Sangchikam Pame, delivered the
welcome address.
A total of 108 people attended the two-day conclave.
