Pasighat – The 14th edition of the North East Leaders Connect (NELC) conclave concluded on Sunday at Abor Country River Camp in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, marking another milestone in the region’s collaborative efforts toward sustainable development and economic growth.
Hosted by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, the event brought together some of the most influential figures from the Northeast to engage in discussions shaping the region’s future.
Attended by prominent personalities including former Indian football captain Baichung Bhutia, journalist Karma Paljor, policymakers like Hekani Jakhalu, and environmental advocates such as Dr. Lalrintluanga and G.G. Kamei, the conclave served as a dynamic platform for dialogue on crucial issues affecting the region. Topics ranging from biodiversity conservation to youth empowerment and economic innovation took center stage as leaders shared insights and strategies to drive positive change.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Pema Khandu underscored the need to foster entrepreneurship in biodiversity and forest conservation, emphasizing the importance of sustainable initiatives. He announced the launch of the Ecopreneur Fellowship Initiative, a program designed to empower young professionals in environmental conservation. In partnership with the Möbius Foundation and the University of Cambridge, the initiative will enable forestry graduates to contribute to conservation projects, integrate environmental education into school curricula through the Pani Pahar program, and participate in broader climate action efforts.
Echoing the call for sustainability, Baichung Bhutia urged communities to reassess traditional hunting practices and adopt eco-friendly approaches to preserving the region’s rich forest cover. He cited Silluk village for its exemplary cleanliness and Aohali for its commitment to a zero-hunting policy, recognizing them as models for sustainable development in the Northeast.
The conclave also featured perspectives from other key speakers, including Dr. Lalrintluanga, Mhon Kikon, and G.G. Kamei, who deliberated on NELC’s evolving role in fostering leadership and innovation among the region’s youth. The discussions emphasized the necessity of collective action in addressing regional challenges while leveraging the Northeast’s natural and cultural strengths for long-term progress.
Host MLA Oken Tayeng hailed the event as a convergence of visionaries and change-makers, stressing the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable growth. The discussions at NELC, he noted, will pave the way for stronger partnerships and more impactful initiatives that benefit communities across the region.
NELC, originally established as Young Leaders Connect in 2011 in Kohima, Nagaland, has grown into a premier platform for professionals, policymakers, and cultural figures from diverse fields. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in shaping policy discussions, promoting entrepreneurship, and driving grassroots initiatives to accelerate development in the Northeast.
With renewed commitments and actionable strategies emerging from this year’s conclave, NELC 2024 reinforced its mission of fostering leadership and sustainable progress in the Northeast. As participants departed, the overarching sentiment was one of optimism and determination, with a shared vision of turning ideas into tangible change for the region’s future.
Read More: Security Forces Destroy Illegal Poppy Plantations in Manipur’s Anti-Drug Crackdown