Years of social and political struggle, endless rallying, demonstrations, seminars, consultations and Nagaland State Assembly resolutions, and just when we thought we were nearing the coast of the Naga Integration (which I believe almost every Naga had at least vocally endorsed), dark clouds of fear, mistrust and doubt seem to emerge from some sections. This is normal. The two Germanys, too, once trod that cobbled path.
In the first place, why the Integration? In order to weaken and subjugate the once proud, independent and powerful Nagas, they were divided under different administrative units. This was much against the will of the Nagas. Ethically this was wrong, not to mention the impracticality of its socio-political implications. The wrongs must first be undone.
Secondly, many ask, ‘why target the education system?’ Students are the future pillars of the Nation, so we say. Most of the young Nagas, especially those outside the Nagaland state do not have the privilege of coming to know the Naga history, her rich culture, heritage, faith, etc. Under one education system we can achieve oneness of mind, heart and vision, and this will eventually bring unity and strength. The word ‘target’ hence is a misnomer, Isn’t it rather a ‘privilege’?
Thirdly, will it adversely affect the education system in the present Nagaland state? Yes, it will, but definitely not adversely. Instead, it will enhance the quality of education. You know what I mean – the more the competitors, the more the efforts put in: the end result – quality output. The brotherly treatment given by the Nagaland State Government (Ruling as well as Opposition), the NBSE, the All Nagaland Private Schools Association, Naga Hoho, NSF and its Tribe Units, NMA, NPMHR, other concerned NGOs and Civil Societies of the Nagaland state in the affiliation process will never be forgotten.
Fourthly, any danger of rise in unemployment in the state of Nagaland? Like it or not, unemployment is a malady inherent in every nation, for even a highly developed country like the USA which ironically is not as heavily populated as India, is not exempt. There are 95,000 state government employees in Manipur. 29,450 posts are reserved for the tribals out of which 6,300 are Naga employees (other tribals account for 7,950 posts). What are the rest of the Nagas doing then? Recent trends show that more and more Nagas in Manipur are seeking other avenues of employment for sustenance. One reason is that they are beginning to discover their entrepreneurship capabilities. Another is the natural–resource–harnessing enthusiasm that is spreading among the younger generation. Doesn’t this augur well for the future Naga nation? Besides, once the Integration is achieved, many jobs held by others in the Naga Hills will fall vacant, and these will have to be filled up by the Nagas themselves.
The road to freedom is not always easy. It demands clear vision, unwavering determination, and, should the need arise, even much sacrifice. Should the Nagas then just continue to bask in past glory, soak in the fleeting pleasures of the present, and, forfeiting the bright future of tomorrow, be content to remain under subjugation?
N. Kamei
Tahamzam, On e-mail
