Lotsu Village: A unique experiment of profiling development activities of various departments and setting up of ‘development committee’ initiated in 39 Sanis assembly constituency may soon serve as a role model for other assembly seats to translate development activities in papers into reality.
Profile to translate development activities in papers into reality
A brainchild of Independent legislator and chairman, Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation (NSMDC), Thomas Lotha, who also represents 39 Sanis A/C, the ‘profile’ created would also serve as a road map to speed up development, especially in rural villages. In addition, in a total departure from the usual politician-government officials-VDB/village council nexus, which decides on the fate of development of a village at the cost of the common man, Thomas suggested setting up of a development committee which will also include representatives from all sections of villagers, irrespective of political affiliations, to monitor and implement developmental activities.
“This will ensure transparency and accountability in execution of developmental works unlike the present system where the ‘unholy alliance’ between government officials and VDBs or village councils and even politicians, has deprived villagers of their due share of development.”
Thomas was addressing a joint ‘development co-ordination meeting’ of development departments and village council of ‘Potina-Kup’ area comprising of ten villages at Lotsu village council hall on Saturday.
The Independent legislator further suggested setting up of a “citizens’ court” comprising of all villagers which will look into cases of anomalies or misappropriation of development funds.
On the occasion, Thomas also spelled out his developmental vision for his constituency including road connectivity, healthcare, water supply, agri and allied sector, education, sports and cultural activities, social welfare programmes, preservation of flora and fauna, policy on mineral resources and power generation.
Terming Sanis A/C as a natural and mineral rich area and also a major contributor of revenue to the state in the form of Doyang Hydro Project (which falls under 39 Sanis and 37 Tuyi A/Cs), he however lamented that Sanis A/C was neglected by successive governments in the past.
He urged the HoDs and officers of various departments to give their best for the welfare of the rural people. Thomas also called upon the villagers to co-operate with the government officials for speedy all-round development of the constituency.
HoDs and department officers from Power, Education, PHE, PWD, Horticulture, Planning, IPR, Health & Family Welfare and Nagaland State Transport, also shared their views and suggestions on the MLA’s concern and vision. Chairmen and GBs of all ten villages also voiced out their developmental needs and submitted proposals to the MLA and departments.
