March 10, Kohima: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today suggested increasing the funds for the Local Area Development Programme (LADP) to help elected representatives promote small-scale entrepreneurship in their constituencies.
Speaking in the Assembly, the Chief Minister said that legislators should identify and support young people in their constituencies to start small businesses such as barber shops, tailoring, electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and electronic repair services.
He said that instead of relying on banks or agencies, it would be more beneficial to support nano-entrepreneurs who require minimal investment, around 10 to 50 lakh rupees, with annual turnovers of about 25 lakh rupees.
By supporting these small ventures locally, Mr. Rio said, villagers would no longer need to travel long distances to towns for basic services, which often leads to unnecessary expenses.
The Chief Minister therefore proposed that the additional LADP allocation be specifically targeted towards skill development for youth at the constituency level.
He also encouraged members to facilitate participation in various training programmes by assisting with transportation and lodging where necessary.
