On the occasion of the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebration and the IEC campaign for the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, ICFAI University organized a state-level debate competition on the topic “NLTP Act 1989” on 18 November 2024 at the ICFAI University campus in Chumoukedima.
Addressing the gathering, Joint Secretary of the Tribal Affairs Department, Hito Sema, highlighted the aims and objectives of the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebration and the IEC campaign.
Toli K Jimo, Tshekukhro-u Akami, Yantsumong J. Yimchunger, Pekivi K. Kiho, Grace Zhimomi, and Engenmendang Jamir participated in the debate.
The winner of the debate, Pekivi K. Kiho from Patkai Christian College, spoke against the motion. While acknowledging that the intention of the NLTP Act 1989 was noble, she stated that the society we live in today cannot claim the Act has fulfilled its purpose. She emphasized that we must confront the truth that the NLTP Act has not succeeded in its primary objective.
Kiho argued that the NLTP Act has encouraged corruption, created syndicates, spurred liquor production, and led to the consumption of adulterated alcohol, ultimately destroying our people. “The term ‘dry state’ exists only on paper, but in reality, alcohol can be found everywhere—along highways, near government offices, educational institutions, and even easily accessible to students and children,” she said.
She further stated that without the effective implementation of the Act, such as licensing, regulating, and monitoring the sale of alcohol to ensure it is sold safely and responsibly, it is time to look for a more practical approach to address the problem.
Antsa Sumi, JE of the Power Department; Dr. Juvil Jakha, MBBS; and Dr. Eli Seb Rengma, Consultant Clinical Cardiologist at Olive CHRC, were the judges for the event.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Rupanka Bhuyan, Registrar of ICFAI University Nagaland, and the program was chaired by Kikarenla Jamir. Kevimesu Naleo delivered the vote of thanks.