NDPP holds 5th General Convention, charts path with key resolutions

The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) held its 5th General Convention at the Capital Cultural Hall, Kohima, where significant resolutions were adopted to address political, economic, agricultural, youth, and governance priorities. The resolutions reaffirmed the party’s commitment to justice, equality, and progress for Nagaland while advocating for regional interests and development.

Political Resolutions
The NDPP prioritized the Indo-Naga political issue as its foremost agenda, appreciating the contributions of Naga National Political Groups and leaders in shaping the Naga people’s history and aspiration for honour, recognition and lasting peace.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to defending and protecting the rights of the Naga people, urging unity among political groups to achieve an inclusive and honorable resolution. The party called upon the Government of India to expedite a final settlement that respects the unique history and aspirations of the Naga people.

The NDPP also strongly opposed the abolition of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the construction of border fences along the Indo-Myanmar border, citing potential negative impacts on Indo-Naga peace talks and regional stability. Additionally, the party reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the rich culture and traditions of Nagaland for future generations.

Economic Resolutions
The NDPP outlined a vision for Nagaland’s economic growth in alignment with India’s “Act East Policy,” aiming to establish the state as a strategic hub for trade with ASEAN nations. The party lauded the government’s initiatives, such as the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative and Universal Life Insurance Scheme, which have facilitated economic expansion and entrepreneurship.

Encouraging further investment in entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and sustainable agriculture, the NDPP urged the state government to implement policies that support job creation and economic diversification. The party also called for the revocation of the Protected/Restricted Area Permit regime, which it argued hinders tourism and industrial development in the state.

Agricultural Resolutions
Recognizing Nagaland’s agrarian roots, the NDPP pledged to modernize agriculture through technological integration and large-scale production. The party called on the government to implement policies that foster collaboration with national and international experts, encouraging farmers to adopt modern farming techniques, including blockchain integration, value addition, and organic farming. This shift, the party stated, would elevate Nagaland’s agricultural sector from subsistence farming to a modern, profitable industry.

 Youth Development Resolutions
The NDPP underscored the importance of youth empowerment, commending the government for its policies promoting sports, start-ups, and entrepreneurship. The successful hosting of international and national events such as the Asia Music Summit and the North-East Olympics was cited as evidence of the government’s commitment to youth development.

To further advance youth opportunities, the NDPP encouraged the government to expand initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Scholarship for Music and Arts and the Dr. T Ao State Sports Awards. Additionally, the party urged effective utilization of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) in sectors such as honey production, bamboo cultivation, and creative industries to create more employment opportunities.

Governance and Administrative Resolutions
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and good governance, the NDPP lauded the state government for the creation of six new districts—Noklak, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Tseminyu, Shamator, and Meluri—stating that this move brings governance closer to the people and fosters regional development.

The party also extended its support for the demands of Eastern Nagaland for the establishment of the Frontier Nagaland Territory, while appealing for unity and solidarity among all Naga communities. The NDPP resolved to strive toward bringing together the broader Naga community and achieving a unified Nagaland.

NDPP re-elects Chingwang Konyak and Abu Metha

The NDPP re-elected Chingwang Konyak and Abu Metha as President and Secretary General, respectively, for the 2024-2027 tenure during its 5th General Convention on February 27.

The convention commenced with an invocation by H Chuba Chang, Working President, followed by a welcome address and the Secretary General’s report, presented by Abu Metha, Secretary General.

Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang; Ministers G. Kaito Aye, Metsubo Jamir, CL John, and KG Kenye spoke at the convention. The event was chaired by Merentoshi R. Jamir, Vice President and Spokesperson, and also featured a presidential address by Chingwang Konyak and a keynote speech by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. The program concluded with the report of the Constitution Review Committee, presented by Benjamin Lorin, Vice President and Convenor of the Constitution Review Committee; the adoption of resolutions, presented by Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister and Convenor of the Resolution Committee; and the announcement of election results, presented by Charlie Sekhose, Senior Vice President and Convenor of the Election Committee, along with cultural performances. The concluding remarks and vote of thanks were delivered by Dr. Chumben Murry, Senior Vice President and Coordinator.

N Bendang Jamir, H Chuba Chang, and Ahovi Zhimomi will be the Working Presidents, with Dr John Murry serving as Treasurer. Charlie Sekhose, Rusemtong Longkumer, and Dr Chumben Murry will be the three Senior Vice Presidents.

Imchatoba Imchen will head the Central Youth Organisation as President, with Lhouvi Punyu as Working President, Mixishe Zhimo and Merithung Odyuo as General Secretaries, and Sedevikho Angami as Treasurer.

Vikali A Zhimomi will lead the Central Women Organisation as President, with Dziesekhonuo as Working President, Imlinaro Stephanie Ezung as General Secretary, and Maipo Walim as Treasurer. Y Vikheho Swu will serve as President of the Central Agri & Allied Organisation.

MT