Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday said the settlement of the Naga political issue between the Naga national political groups (NNPGs) and the Centre is vital for economic development of the state.
An amicable solution will greatly impact the development of the Naga people as a whole and definitely pave the way for them to catch up with the rest of the country as well as the world, Rio said.
He was speaking at the Kohima District Planning and Development Board’s day out-cum-pre Christmas programme at Touphema near Kohima.
“The biggest and the happiest day for all Nagas will be the day that the Naga political issue is resolved,” he said.
Rio noted that peace has evaded the Naga people for a long time beginning from “our forefathers” and their head hunting traditions followed by World War I and II and the long-standing conflict between the NNPGs and the government of India, which is still yet to be resolved completely.
He urged every Naga to pray and work towards an early and amicable solution of the issue.
Rio said the young and upcoming generation will be able to grow up in a peaceful environment and access all the opportunities available to them to develop their potential.
He added it was time for the Nagas to come forward and make use of all our available resources to ensure that the state develops economically at a rapid pace.
Rio said the Nagas will soon see the light of the day and will live in peace and prospers in all aspects of life.