Panel of judges, Faculty Staff, Participants and others at the District Level Debate Competition organised by the Department of Economics, ZGC, at the New Academy Building, ZGC, on October 5. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | October 5
Kaino I Yeptho of Olympic Higher Secondary School (OHSS), Zunheboto emerged winner of the District Level Debate Competition organised by the Department of Economics, Zunheboto Government College (ZGC), at the New Academy Building, ZGC, on October 5.
The debate was held on the topic, “India’s 7.8% GDP Growth Rate: Real Recovery or Statistical Illusion?” and witnessed participation from students representing five educational institutions in Zunheboto town including ZGC, Government Higher Secondary School, Immanuel Higher Secondary School, Cornerstone Higher Secondary School and OHSS.
Participants presented arguments both in favour of and against the motion, followed by rebuttals. The debate focused on issues including GDP calculation, employment, consumer spending, government expenditure, inflation, the base year, statistical methodology and whether headline economic growth is translating into tangible improvements for ordinary citizens.
While speakers supporting the motion argued that the 7.8 percent growth reflected increased economic activity, government expenditure, investment and expansion of the services sector, those opposing the motion questioned whether the growth figures adequately reflected employment, household purchasing power and the condition of vulnerable sectors.
Speaking as one of the judges, L Chinglem Konyak, NCS, EAC, Satoi, appreciated the depth of research and confidence displayed by the participants, particularly considering that most of them were secondary-level students.
Konyak observed that the topic required deeper analysis, noting that several participants had engaged with complex issues such as the GDP base year, wholesale price index, employment and statistical methodology. He encouraged students to participate regularly in debates, stating that such activities help build confidence, personality and research skills.
He also suggested that participants could have examined more closely the mathematical and statistical methodology used in calculating GDP and the role of the National Statistical Office (NSO) and the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
The competition was judged by L Chinglem Konyak, NCS, EAC, Satoi, Zunheboto; Kabo Kiba, General Secretary, NPF 35-Zunheboto Assembly Constituency; and Tonoli S Awomi, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, ZGC. Aghato Zhimo served as the timekeeper.
The programme was chaired by Assutoli Shenunu, BA 5th Semester, and commenced with a welcome address by Dr Bendangtemjen, Principal, ZGC. The debate was moderated by Kileto I Chishi, Assistant Professor, Department of History, ZGC.
The programme concluded with the declaration of results and distribution of certificates to the participants. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Bolivi S Kiba, Assistant Professor and Head of Department of Economics, ZGC.
