In a boost for Nagaland’s jobless youth, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio revealed that over 450 have enrolled in the ambitious ‘Nagaland-Japan Connect 2026’ program. Impressively, 65 candidates are on the verge of employment in agriculture, manufacturing, and shipping industries.
Addressing Deputy Commissioners on Friday, Rio underscored the integration of skill-building with real-world job outcomes. Job fairs and alliances with industry partners are opening doors for young Nagas, ensuring their training translates into paychecks.
Participation is soaring, with the live register boasting more than 73,000 names ahead of February 2026 deadlines. The ‘Mega Job Fair’ across the state is a cornerstone effort to maximize outreach.
The government’s commitment shines through coordinated efforts linking skills training to startups and finance. Initiatives like the CM’s Micro Finance scheme are empowering entrepreneurs and job seekers alike.
Rio highlighted the expanded roles of DCs in modern governance: from traditional duties like revenue collection and elections to spearheading central projects, crisis response, and inter-departmental harmony. They now drive development from planning to execution.
Pushing for fairness, the Nagaland Staff Selection Board ensures unbiased Group-C recruitments. Meanwhile, the Skill Mission adapts to market needs in sectors such as building, tourism, logistics, and tech.
Fiscal prudence is critical amid shrinking central funds from the 16th Finance Commission and absent grants for the next quinquennium. Despite hurdles, Rio’s strategy prioritizes workforce readiness for a thriving economy.
