DIMAPUR — The Students' Christian Movement of India (SCMI), Nagaland, organised a two-day regional programme on the theme "Equity in focus: overcoming development challenges in Nagaland" at the Youth Oasis Centre, Eralibill, on November 13 and 14.
The event brought together speakers, youth leaders, and student participants to discuss innovative solutions for addressing development challenges through equity-focused approaches, according to a press release.
In his keynote address, Manshen K, honorary senior friend of SCMI and treasurer of SCMI Nagaland, highlighted the importance of balancing quality and access in the education sector. He also discussed the Frontier Nagaland Territory movement.
Dr. Rilipong Thonger, legal advisor of the United Sangtam Students’ Conference, spoke on youth empowerment and leadership development. His session focused on equipping young individuals with critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills to help them drive positive change in their communities and personal lives.
Adekhing I Sangtam, vice president of the United Sangtam Students’ Conference, emphasised the importance of capacity building and skill development for sustainable growth.
He outlined strategies such as tailored training programmes, mentorship, and community engagement to strengthen individual and organisational capabilities for long-term success.
Adding an economic perspective, Zaito Ayemi, a prominent entrepreneur, spoke on economic diversification through sustainable agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industries. He emphasised the importance of leveraging Nagaland's natural and cultural resources to create sustainable livelihoods, promote local economic growth, and reduce dependence on traditional industries.
Dr. Aniruddha Babar, assistant professor of Political Science at Tetso College, Chümoukedima, drew on his expertise as a policy analyst to examine the ongoing socio-economic and political challenges faced by the eastern part of Nagaland.
He advocated for governance reforms that empower local Eastern Naga communities through legislative, executive, and financial autonomy, enabling more culturally relevant, constitutionally robust, socially effective, and transformative development strategies that are people-oriented and efficient.