A new chapter in Nagaland’s development story

The inauguration of Northeast's first Integrated Business Hub and Innovation Center (IBHIC), aims to fuel the State’s journey towards economic growth. This groundbreaking initiative is expected to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, marks a significant shift from past challenges to a future of progress and prosperity

The narrative of Nagaland state, in particular, and the Northeast region, in general, is changing from one of being mired in decades of stagnation, insurgency, violence, and instability to a more positive image of a progressive and prosperous state as Nagas, along with other regional tribes, strive towards excellence with the aspiration to play a role in Bharat's growth and prosperity.

On 13 March, Neiphiu Rio, the Chief Minister of Nagaland, inaugurated the Business and Innovation Hub, the first of its kind in the Northeast region of India. The event was attended by central and state designates and various stakeholders, including government bodies, industry leaders, and development organisations. The Integrated Business Hub and Innovation Center (IBHIC), a joint venture between the State and Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), will be operated as a special purpose vehicle (SPV), with support from industry bodies, startup enablers, and stakeholders.

Describing the occasion as ‘a significant milestone’ in Nagaland's journey towards economic prosperity and development, CM Neiphiu said, “This new facility will create opportunities for entrepreneurs, innovators, and youth to strive towards their aspirations.”

Nagaland is renowned for its rich culture, vibrant tradition, breathtaking landscapes, and internationally recognised hornbill festivals. However, the state government has acknowledged that to unlock its full potential, it must embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, which led to the formation of this integrated business and innovation hub.

Drawing on Prime Minister Modi's message during the Governing Council meetings, which the Chief Minister of Nagaland also attended, Suman Kumar Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Ayog, emphasised at the inauguration that India grows only when its states grow. Development initiatives must recognise and cater to the individual and specific needs of individual states. IBHIC represents a significant step towards realising the vision of a progressive and prosperous Nagaland. It is also a testament to unwavering resolve to harness innovation as a catalyst for socio-economic development and empowerment, especially for youth.

TR Zeliang, Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, expressing his delight at the launch of the Innovation Hub, said he was pleased to witness the convergence of various stakeholders, including government bodies, industry leaders, and development organisations, in support of IBHIC. He added, "This collaborative effort underscores collective commitment to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem that fosters creativity and forward-thinking entrepreneurship." Zeliang expected the Hub to evolve as ‘a beacon of hope and opportunity’ to empower naga entrepreneurs to chart their part towards success and prosperity.

Abu Metha, Advisor to the CM of Nagaland and Chairman of the IDAN highlighting the state's contributions in the past decade said, “Nagaland has given its best sons and daughters towards nation building. Be it India's adventure from the heights of Kargil where our soldiers made ultimate sacrifices to international sporting arenas to music platforms artists judicial luminaries, excellent bureaucrats and significant personalities in public affairs." He added, "We can say with pride that Nagas and Nagaland contributed to India's rise.”

Dr Chintan Vaisnav, Mission Director of AIM, NITI Aayog, complimented Chief Minister Neiphiu for recognising the economy as a crucial driver for the state and swiftly launching the IBHIC initiative. Dr Chintan noted that Nagaland has 56 startups, approximately one-fifth of India's average. Should the states maintain pace with India's growth rate, local startups could potentially grow 50 times. According to Dr Chintan, on average, today in India, a single startup creates 12 jobs. Nagaland leads the country in women's leadership roles, as 47 per cent of Naga startups are led by women. Dr Chitan said this will bring its own form of prosperity and advantages to families.

Nagaland has also become a destination for the iconic Horn Bill, a tribal festival that showcases the cultural depth and diversity of 16 Naga tribes across the state, which is a source of national pride. Last year, Kohima hosted significant events such as the Asia Music Summit, the South Asian Cross-Country Championship, and G20 and B20 international events.

With a large pool of educated youth, the immediate need is to define a vision for Nagaland and the Northeast region. Combined with skills and exposure through industrial and business visits and leveraging their innate adaptability, Naga people are poised to excel in the evolving business environment.

As India reevaluates its development model in light of the changing global order, emerging technologies, and challenges posed to planet Earth due to global warming, the Northeastern states stand to play a leading role in creating sustainable development models.

India has undergone a significant revolution in the skill development and education of its youth in the last two decades, a testament to investment in human capital. The next step is to inspire youth to become job creators, not just job seekers.

(The author is Founder of My Startup TV)