The Mokokchung Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has expressed its full support for the recent directive issued by the Department of Personnel & Administrative Reforms, Government of Nagaland, which cautions government employees against engaging in private sector employment. The notification, dated March 4, 2025, aims to ensure that public servants remain focused on their official duties and uphold the integrity of public service.
In a statement, the MCCI said it appreciates the directive as a “much-needed step” to uphold the integrity of public service, ensure fair business competition, and promote a healthy economic ecosystem in Nagaland. The Chamber particularly highlighted several key reasons behind their support for the Government’s stand.
The MCCI explained that restricting government employees from engaging in private businesses is vital to maintaining government efficiency and integrity.
“Government employees are entrusted with the responsibility of serving the public with dedication and impartiality,” the statement said. “Any involvement in private business interests can lead to conflicts of interest, misallocation of time, and possible misuse of official resources. By reinforcing service conduct rules, the Government ensures that employees remain fully committed to their official duties, enhancing overall governance efficiency.”
The MCCI also pointed out the need for a fair and competitive business environment. When government employees engage in private businesses, it creates an uneven playing field, where undue influence and favoritism could occur. “By strictly enforcing Section 15(1) of the Nagaland Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1968, the Government is promoting a fair and competitive market, allowing independent entrepreneurs to thrive without undue interference or unfair advantages enjoyed by those in official positions,” the chamber said.
Furthermore, the MCCI stressed the importance of boosting local entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities. “A business ecosystem free from government employee intervention will create greater opportunities for local entrepreneurs and youth seeking self-employment,” the statement added. “The move ensures that business ownership and economic opportunities remain open for genuine entrepreneurs, thus contributing to the growth of Nagaland’s economy and the generation of sustainable employment.”
The Chamber also commended the Government for taking proactive measures to prevent unethical business practices. “The misuse of official positions to promote private enterprises is detrimental to ethical business practices,” the chamber noted. “This notification will help curb such tendencies, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and good governance”.
The MCCI has urged all government employees to adhere strictly to the provisions of the notification and refrain from engaging in private employment without proper authorization. The Chamber assured its continued support for the Government’s efforts to promote economic growth, entrepreneurship, and a transparent business environment.
The MCCI further expressed its hope that the Nagaland Government will implement the notification and the relevant rules mentioned within it in both letter and spirit.