The Phek District Chamber of Commerce and Industry conducted its fourth annual general meeting in Chozuba town on May 15.
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DIMAPUR — The Phek District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PDCCI) adopted a resolution barring large corporate retail chains such as Vishal and Smart Bazaar from operating in the district during its fourth annual general meeting (AGM) held at Uko Café in Chozuba town on May 15.
Hosted by the Business Union Chozuba Town (BUCT), the AGM was held on the theme “Strengthening local economy through responsible leadership”.
According to an update, the meeting witnessed the participation of executives and representatives from affiliated business bodies across the Phek district, where deliberations concerning the future of the district's business community, institutional reforms, economic policies, and sustainable business development were discussed.
Rhütsüyi Rhakho, President of BUCT, in his welcome address, highlighted the importance of collective cooperation, unity, and collaboration among various business bodies.
Former PDCCI President Chetezo Akami encouraged the business community to maintain courtesy, professionalism, and good relations with customers. He further urged local entrepreneurs to continue striving forward with dedication and hard work, especially considering that many Nagas remain first-generation entrepreneurs.
The keynote address was delivered by Razoukhruyi Dozo, President of PDCCI, who pointed out several pressing issues affecting the business sector.
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He stressed the need for greater government support to strengthen the business community and improve the ease of doing business. He further underscored the importance of creating opportunities for the youth, addressing multiple taxation issues, streamlining the NLTP Act appropriately, and strengthening local entrepreneurship.
The president stated that more than 95% of the businesses operating within the Phek district are owned and managed by local entrepreneurs, describing it as a positive sign for the Chakhesang community.
During the district business policy session chaired by Truvi Rhi, Joint Secretary of PDCCI, the house adopted eight resolutions.
These included a policy on genuine local ownership and business transparency, discouraging proxy or benami business arrangements and promoting genuine local participation. It was resolved that no benami business will be allowed in the Phek district.
The house adopted a policy on the protection of local small and medium enterprises, deciding that large corporate retail chains like Vishal, Jio Mart, or Smart Bazaar will not be allowed in the district to safeguard local traders and family-run businesses. This policy will be reviewed every five years.
Another resolution reaffirmed the principle of "one government, one taxation/collection system" and opposed repeated or excessive unofficial financial demands upon the business community by various Naga political groups.
The house also resolved to encourage fair, lawful, and transparent municipal business-related collections on trade permits and other taxes. Further, a policy on ethical business practices and fair trade was adopted to promote professionalism, consumer respect, and lawful business conduct.
Regarding the regulation of inspections, the house resolved that only a government-authorised and empowered department can inspect business establishments. No non-governmental organisations or civil bodies will be allowed to check, inspect, or issue directives for shop closures in the district.
The affiliated units also adopted the use of the nomenclature "Business Association" for greater institutional uniformity and professional representation.
Finally, reaffirming the commitment to a "local entrepreneur first" policy, the house highlighted the importance of encouraging local people to actively engage in business activities and build a stronger, self-reliant local economy driven by indigenous entrepreneurship.