For the first time in recent memory, Nagaland’s Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) funds have made a difference in the lives of the people – the irony!

Nagaland’s Lok Sabha MP, Supongmeren Jamir on November 1, 2024, donated six community ambulances, funded under the MPLADS 2024-25, to the districts of Kohima, Phek, Wokha, Zunheboto, Tseminyu, and Peren.

The donation, a rare transparent utilization of MPLADS resources in Nagaland, is drawing widespread appreciation from citizens across the state, many of whom are accustomed to seeing MPLADS funds go underutilized or misdirected.

“When we got the news that we were getting an ambulance, it was rather a surprise for us,” said a representative from the Angami Peoples’ Organization.

“It’s the first time we have encountered our MP providing us with an ambulance—the highest service to humanity,” reacted a representative from the Chakhesang Public Organization.

“When politicians give us assurances, we usually take it lightly as it often takes a long time, and in most cases, it is forgotten. But unlike other leaders, our MP has kept his word,” said a representative from the Sumi Hoho.

“As MP, this is his first initiative, and as the saying goes, ‘Morning shows the day.’ We hope and pray that you will continue to do more for the downtrodden people. If there were more leaders like you—who perceive the needs of the people without being asked—we would have a better Nagaland,” the Lotha Hoho representative said.

“Hearing this good news, I thought about the geographical location of Peren District, which is very far from the town, and the road conditions are pathetic. I am truly grateful for this noble gesture,” said a representative from the Zeliang Peoples’ Organization.

“After hearing this news, I was very happy. This is the first time the Rengma community has received such benefits from an MP since Nagaland attained its statehood, if I am not wrong,” said a representative from the Rengma Hoho.

The MP expressed gratitude to the tribal hohos and stressed the importance of their support in ensuring the ambulances reach the grassroots, particularly the downtrodden communities. In a light-hearted moment, he assured that this would not be his last initiative, jokingly remarking, “I have told the Ao Senden that they will be the last to receive.”

The donation of community ambulances is a reminder of the long-standing neglect of MPLADS funds in Nagaland. For years, many have witnessed these resources go underutilized or misdirected, leaving communities without essential services. As the praises for MP Supongmeren’s initiative continue to echo, there’s a lingering irony: the hope that this rare action marks the beginning of a new trend where MPLADS funds truly benefit the people, rather than remain dormant in bureaucratic limbo.

MT

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