Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has called for creating an enabling environment that encourages young people in the state to become job creators rather than job seekers, stressing the importance of entrepreneurship, mentorship, technology, financial support and market access.
He was speaking at the launch of various technology startups and digital initiatives at the NITI Incubation Centre in Marwari Patti, Dimapur, on Friday. The programme was organised under Startup Nagaland by the Department of Industries and Commerce.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha and 6 Sector Assam Rifles Deputy Inspector General Brigadier Mayank Singh Jamwal attended the programme as guests of honour.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said Nagaland had a large young population with considerable potential, but unlocking that potential would require coordinated efforts from the government, educational institutions, private organisations and the entrepreneurial community.
He stressed the need to provide young entrepreneurs with the necessary support to develop their ideas into sustainable businesses. He also encouraged the NITI Incubation Centre to identify talented young people, nurture their skills and help them establish viable enterprises.
Yadav urged the youth to focus on developing indigenous products, innovations and businesses that could compete at the national level. He said young entrepreneurs should not remain dependent solely on technologies developed elsewhere but should work towards creating solutions and products of their own.
The Governor also highlighted the importance of providing aspiring entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, funding opportunities, modern technology and wider markets to help them turn their business ideas into successful ventures.
Commending NITI Dimapur for its contribution to skill development and employment generation over the past 26 years, Yadav acknowledged the institution’s role in training young people and creating opportunities for local talent.
Established in 2000 under the NIIT banner, the institution has trained more than 40,000 Naga youth. At least 50 per cent of its workforce comprises local people, reflecting its contribution to employment generation within the state.
The Governor also appreciated NITI’s expansion into software development through NITI Technologies, which has developed several digital platforms and solutions, including the Hornbill Festival app, NBSE Connect and the NTIAET portal.
He further acknowledged the contribution of NITI Academy in making quality competitive education accessible and affordable to students.
The launch of the technology startups and digital initiatives marks another step towards strengthening Nagaland’s startup and innovation ecosystem, with a focus on encouraging local talent, promoting entrepreneurship and creating new employment opportunities.
