Dimapur, April 4 (MExN): Chairman of NSCN-IM Isak Chishi Swu in his remarks on ‘fiscal policy’ during the “Budget Session of the Fiscal year 2007-2008” of the NSCN-IM at Camp Hebron maintained that the endurance of any nation is determined primarily by its economic stability and a responsible society with sound economy and inquisitive mind is behind humanity’s greatest achievement in any field.
“Nations possessing these three essential elements are recognized instantly for they are the masters in their own affairs” he asserted. However, Swu lamented that “the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to the Nagas is our obsessive dependence on India for our sustenance.” “…what alarms me most is our ignorance and inability to explore the possibility of surviving on our own economically. Clearly we need to identify the prime areas where we could thrive on our own. It is high time that we break out of this non-performing zone and educate our people on the importance of self sustenance” he observed.
He set the following points of the members to “ponder upon”. Firstly, the NSCN-IM needs to have a broader outline when it comes to “fiscal structure” and “we must find a way to restructure our fiscal policy with vision while meeting the demands of the day.”
Secondly, a mechanism to control pilferages “for effective governance” must be found “because we have had the history of financial irregularities owing to mismanagement by those assigned in towns and other areas, particularly the collectors, whereby, embezzlement of Government money is constantly reported.” This is causing a huge toll on the “government treasury” he said and called for strict control over the malpractices by competent authority. Thirdly, goals must be set and the Chaplee ministry must see to it that they are met and that “as people’s Government” it is its “duty to effectively reflect transparency in our financial transactions.”
Further, due consideration must be given to the overall economic status of the people he said. “Local entrepreneurs particularly in agro-based products and other indigenous arts and crafts must be supported and encouraged through nominal taxation policy. While depending on the support of our people, NSCN must also ensure that the nation building process continues. Inviting eminent economists and experts in various other fields must be considered from time to time to meet the demands of the future” he said.
Swu commenting on the Indo-Naga talks with the government of India said that it is moving in the “right direction” and held optimism that the GOI is “equally serious” for solving the Indo-Naga conflict. “The political talks with the GOI, I must mention, is moving in the right direction. The latest round held in New Delhi ended on the positive note. We believe the GOI is equally serious in settling the Indo-Naga issue”
