DIMAPUR Feb 26 (MExN): On the need for Nagas to diversify their approach in seeking employment by searching for avenues outside Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Leader of Opposition I Imkong may share the same views. But as far as the Congress stalwart is concerned, the raising of Indian Reserve Battalions (IRB) in the hilly state is a trite too expensive for the exchequer. If a battalion is requisitioned to another state, that government has to incur the expenses for as long as the force is deputed in the area. However, there is a twist to the tale after the troops return to Nagaland.
The Centre sanctions a sum of Rs 14 crore for the raising of an IR battalion. However, after this initial payment, the State Government has to bear the expenses of maintaining the force. And given the higher life expectancy of citizens with the advent of better medical facilities, disbursement of pensions for prolonged periods may serve as a bitter blow to the treasury’s coffers, according to Imkong. His mantra for an alternative is raising more Naga regiments or accommodating those interested in being the guardians of the society into areas such as the CRPF or the BSF.
Speaking to media persons at his Dimapur residence, Imkong said his sojourn into the Naxal-infested state of Chhattisgarh was worth the exertion. In his sonorous voice, he said the carrying out of ‘operation greenhorn’ by the IRB boys had proved very successful and expressed awe over the meticulous planning carried out by the men in uniform during anti-Naxal maneuvers. The commandant of the 9 IRB is doing a great job in enforcing discipline among the ranks, he said.
Imkong said he had requested Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh to provide bicycles to the soldiers. To win over the villagers, he had proposed that medicines be distributed by IRB cadres to the village dwellers. He was all praise for the Raman Singh ministry. “The Chhattisgarh government is doing good for the boys.”
