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KOHIMA — Asserting that the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) should not only be viewed as a political party but as a movement for progress, a movement for change to take Nagaland towards excellence, the party’s secretary general, Abu Metha, urged the party youth to be the steel frame of the party to establish a strong foundation.
Metha, who is also the advisor to the chief minister of Nagaland and the chairman of the Investment Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), stated this during a joint consultative meeting of the NDPP Central Youth Organisation (CYO) at the party’s office headquarters in Kohima on Tuesday.
He reiterated that NDPP was formed to bring about changes in response to the people’s demand for a new political organisation that could address the challenges and issues facing Naga society in a way aligned with modern times. He also pointed out the strides made by the party despite being relatively new and successfully gaining the people's mandate shortly after its registration.
Metha highlighted the NDPP's Constitution that emphasised service to the citizens of Nagaland, advocating for justice, development, progress, unity, empowerment of youth, support for weaker sections, gender equality, human rights and transparency.
He attributed the NDPP's success to its leadership, clear vision and manifesto, which subsequently gained public acceptance and led to an opposition-less government. He expressed the party's top agenda as working towards permanent peace in Nagaland, striving for a prompt resolution to the Indo-Naga political issue that is honourable, transparent and beneficial for the state’s progress.
Metha stressed that the NDPP aims not only to uphold Nagas’ rights, traditions and aspirations but also to foster progress through partnerships and collaborations.
He also reminded that NDPP is part of both the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), with Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, a five-time chief minister of Nagaland, playing a key role alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the national government.
Metha stated that before the NDPP's formation and rise to power, Nagaland faced instability and uncertainty. However, with the NDPP-led government, he claimed that the state has experienced peace and stability, enabling development and progress. He added that today, Nagaland is recognised nationally and globally, with its youth excelling in fields like music and sports, which has brought pride to both the state and the country.
He highlighted initiatives like the Chief Minister’s micro-finance and health schemes, which provided economic stability and job assurance and urged the youth leaders to champion those schemes to ensure public understanding.
Metha also advised the youth leaders to avoid division and work towards uniting people across the state. He expressed concern over tribalism, emphasising the need for unity in the highly competitive and technology-driven modern world.
He also spoke about the importance of mastering information technology to empower oneself and streamline work, asserting that Artificial Intelligence and social media should be used positively and responsibly to create a meaningful impact.
He challenged the youth organisation to be the steel frame of the party, tasked with conveying the government and party’s messages to the people and striving to fulfill NDPP's aspirations. He also pointed out the ongoing challenges and the need to harness technology to foster transparency, combat corruption and deliver services effectively.
"Being a member of a political party is not employment," Metha said adding, "We are here to serve as public leaders. If we gain employment and benefits, it will help us serve the public better. We should have the intention to sacrifice for our people and contribute to strengthening the NDPP, which in turn will help Nagaland progress."
Metha has emphasised loyalty to the party, which would create a cadre-based foundation and urged the members to see NDPP as not just a political entity but a movement for progress and excellence. He highlighted that the government, under the chief minister values each tribe, identity and tradition, providing recognition and opportunities.
He noted that fields like sports, music and arts are now approached professionally in Nagaland. He also mentioned that the NIMSR in Kohima has attracted students from across India, aspiring to become future doctors, scientists and innovators, with a similar institution planned for Mon district.
Metha further shared his vision for the NDPP youth organisation to be a breeding ground for the next generation of Naga leaders and a talent bank for the NDPP. He assured that the party would continue working for the people as one "Team Nagaland."
Delivering the presidential address, Imchatoba Imchen emphasised the importance of social media to reach people.
Short speeches were also delivered by Imtichoba, president of Tuensang region youth organisation; Amos Odyuo, president of Wokha region youth organisation; and Toshi Longkumer, president of Dimapur region youth organisation.
The welcome address was delivered by working president, Lhouvi Punyu, and the report was presented by Kehouneiu Thernuo, general secretary (Admin.) of CYO. The programme was led by vice president, Vichosel Rhutso, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Mixishe Zhimo, secretary of NDPP CYO.