SHILLONG: There is a dearth of employment opportunities in Mizoram despite the state having achieved a literacy rate of 91.58 per cent according to the 2011 census.
This was observed by Mizoram Governor, Lt Gen Nirbhay Sharma at the 65th Plenary Session of the NEC.
“We might have the highest literacy rates in the country but there is a question mark on our literacy rate actually translating into jobs,” Sharma observed.
In his brief address, the Governor pointed out the need to come up with a comprehensive plan in this regard.
“Our focus must not waver from the fact that people from the North East still have limited knowledge of Hindi and English. This is an area that the NEC and DoNER in conjunction with other arms of the Government can channelize some of the efforts,” he said.
Turning towards the connection between employment and skill development, he said, “Skill development needs repeated emphasis to train the youth with skills mapped to employment opportunities both within and outside the region.” Observing that increasing number of youths are indulging in drugs, he said, “The youth of North East are increasingly falling prey to the scourge of drugs. Diseases like cancer and HIV AIDS have also spread their tentacles.”
On the other hand, speaking on the vulnerability of the region, which falls under Seismic Zone-V, to earthquakes, Sharma said, “The measures to not only manage, but more importantly mitigate (damage) are vital and need our attention.”
Underlining the importance of the “Act East” policy he said, “North East is the most vital link in the chain of our ‘Act East’ Policy. Although in the last two years, there has been a renewed focus and momentum, a lot still needs to be done to strengthen it.”
Echoing the views of the Governor, Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla said that the educational system needs drastic improvement to relate it to the economic and socio development needs of the region.
Addressing the 65th Plenary Session of the NEC, he said, “Every year institutions roll out youths who find it extremely difficult to cope up with the highly competitive world.”
He also called upon measures to be taken to improve the health infrastructure and workforce. Speaking on natural disasters, he said, “The grave problems created by natural disasters call for serious consideration and immediate action.”
