Speaking as a special guest at the Tobu Area GB Union general meeting on 12 November, Lok Sabha MP Supongmeren Jamir highlighted the importance of utilizing land resources effectively for revenue generation. Addressing the gathering in Changsha village, Jamir stressed that while land ownership lies with the people, it is essential to derive economic benefits from these resources.
“For instance, we have petroleum in Wokha district, but due to unresolved issues on ownership and tax negotiations with the government, the Champang oil field has been shut down,” Jamir remarked. “Despite digging the oil field, these resources are now dried up as Assam is tapping the oil reserves from just a kilometer away. While Nagas hold ownership, the resources are being extracted by neighboring states, leaving both the state and landowners without revenue.”
“We are sitting here like this belongs to Nagas but whatever resources we have, these are being taken by other states. The state is not getting revenue and the landowners are not getting anything while our minerals are being pulled by other states,” he said.
Jamir also commented on the role of Gaon Burahs (GBs), traditional village leaders, underscoring their enduring authority under Article 371A, which provides special protection for Naga land and resources. However, he acknowledged the lack of incentives provided to GBs, noting, “GBs hold their roles for a lifetime, but there are no incentives from the government. During British rule, they sought GBs and Dobashis (DBs) as Naga leaders, but these days, elected representatives like MPs and MLAs have taken on leadership but powers on (land and resources) belong to you.”
Reflecting on his initial visit to the area in 1982, Jamir commended the advancements made by the Tobu area and encouraged collaboration for development. “Land and resources are yours under Article 371A, but we must ensure they benefit us financially. There is potential for significant development, and I urge you to consider allowing land for this purpose.”
He assured residents that development would require collaboration with local legislators, stating, “The key to development will be given by your MLA. If we work together, progress can be achieved, but the first step lies with your MLA.”
Recognizing the telecom connectivity issues faced by Changlangshu, Monyakshu, and other Tobu areas, Jamir shared his plans for improved network infrastructure, with plans to bring two BSNL towers to enhance connectivity.
Addressing the incentives for village guards, Jamir acknowledged the limited economic resources in Nagaland and committed to raising the issue with the central government. “I understand village guards receive only around Rs 3,000 as an incentive for rifles. While the state government is facing financial constraints, I will urge the Centre to address this matter,” he stated.