Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav flags unemployment, substance abuse and social divisions, urging unity and collective action across the state.
DIMAPUR — Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Friday flagged unemployment, substance abuse, environmental degradation and social divisions as key challenges facing Nagaland, while calling for collective action, stronger community participation and unity beyond differences of tribe, region, language, religion and political affiliation.
In his address on the eve of 80th Independence Day, Yadav also highlighted the need to create greater opportunities for youth, empower women, support farmers and rural communities, strengthen infrastructure and preserve Nagaland’s cultural identity while embracing a rapidly changing world.
“Issues such as unemployment, substance abuse, environmental degradation and social divisions require our collective attention and action,” he said, stressing that addressing these challenges required not only government programmes but also community participation, responsible citizenship and a shared sense of purpose.
The governor said that Nagaland’s strong community spirit and rich cultural heritage remained important assets, urging people to preserve their cultural identity while taking advantage of opportunities in education, skill development, entrepreneurship, sports and innovation.
He added that the state’s youth possessed immense talent and potential to excel on national and international platforms, and called for an environment that would enable them to realise their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society.
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Yadav also underscored the role of women in education, healthcare, agriculture, entrepreneurship, governance and social development, describing their participation and leadership as essential to building a stronger and more inclusive future.
Highlighting the contribution of farmers and rural communities, he maintained that efforts should continue to improve agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming practices and create better market opportunities.
According to the governor, the government’s focus on infrastructure development, digital connectivity, healthcare services and social welfare initiatives was helping improve citizens’ quality of life. He stressed that roads, communication networks, educational institutions and healthcare facilities were vital foundations for development, while urging citizens to become active partners in the process.
Calling for unity, Yadav reminded that the future of Nagaland and India depended on the ability to work together beyond differences.
“The strength of our democracy lies in our diversity and our progress depends upon our unity,” he said, urging people to foster understanding, tolerance and cooperation.
He also acknowledged the contributions of security forces, police personnel, doctors, nurses, teachers, civil servants and other workers serving society, saying their dedication enabled people to live in safety and pursue their aspirations.
As Nagaland marks the 80th Independence Day, the governor called for a renewed commitment to building a peaceful, progressive and prosperous state, with a focus on creating opportunities for youth, empowering women, protecting the environment, strengthening institutions and upholding the rule of law.
He urged citizens to ensure that the benefits of development reach “every village, every family and every citizen”.
Yadav extended his Independence Day greetings to the people of Nagaland and called for the occasion to be marked with pride, gratitude and a renewed resolve to build a brighter future.