Arenjungla Kichu Mokokchung | 9 November
What does it take to make Mokokchung a better place to live, work and build a future? Is it better infrastructure, more economic opportunities, a change in social attitudes or a clearer political direction?
These questions were at the centre of a panel discussion organised by the Naga People’s Front (NPF) Youth Wing, Mokokchung Division, under the theme “Vision Mokokchung” on November 9. Bringing together speakers from different fields, the discussion looked beyond conventional development issues to examine the social, economic and political challenges facing the district.
In his welcome address, Takonungsang Pongen, President of the NPF Youth Wing, Mokokchung Division, said the programme was organised out of the realisation that goal-setting was important and that the party needed a clearer vision and a better understanding of the issues affecting society.
He said the Youth Wing hoped to move beyond discussions and begin putting the ideas into practice next year.
The topics taken up during the programme reflected the wide range of issues involved in shaping the district’s future. They also brought attention to the responsibilities of political organisations, communities and individuals, rather than placing the entire burden of development on the government.
The discussion linked development with the everyday conditions that influence people’s lives: the availability of jobs and services, the use of local resources, public cooperation and the kind of social environment the district offers.
It also raised the question of whether Mokokchung is creating enough opportunities and a suitable environment for young people to build their lives here.
The political discussion brought another dimension to the programme, examining the NPF’s historical roots and its stated commitment to an inclusive Naga political solution. This placed questions about the party’s political position alongside the district’s social and economic concerns.
Taken together, the discussions pointed to a common challenge: identifying not only what Mokokchung needs, but also what its people and institutions are prepared to do to achieve it.
Pongen’s statement that the Youth Wing hopes to begin putting the ideas into practice next year gives the programme a proposed next step. Turning that intention into action, however, will require clear priorities, specific initiatives and sustained follow-up.