A comprehensive orientation program was conducted for councillors from Dimapur and Chumoukedima on 12th November 2024 at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur, covering a wider range of topics aimed at enhancing urban governance capabilities.
Organized by SMEC International Pt. Ltd. under the Project Design and Management Consultant (PDMC) framework, this training, supported by the Project Readiness Financing (PRF) facility, focused on key elements of municipal governance, policy frameworks, and the operational structure of urban utility services. Leading the sessions was Rajib Das, PDMC Team Leader, who welcomed the councillors and congratulated them, emphasizing that the councillors serve as the crucial link between the people and the government. Bimal Tha, Institutional Expert, and Aman Roy, Project Manager, outlined the essential roles and structures for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in delivering effective civic services.
Key Components Discussed during the orientation program are as follows:
Municipal Workforce and Operations: Councillors were introduced to various roles essential for urban management, including Junior Engineers (JE), Sanitary Inspectors, Assistant Inspectors, and the waste collection and disposal teams, which include truck and cesspool drivers. These teams are responsible for delivering critical services under the ULBs’ jurisdiction.
Solid Waste Management and Sanitation: The Urban Development Department (UDD) plays a central role in construction projects requested by public demand and ULB representatives. These projects include roads, drainage systems, retaining walls, and public amenities such as toilets and wells. Civil maintenance is managed by UDD & MA, while ULBs oversee daily operations, occasionally with support from the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED).
Disaster Preparedness and Infrastructure Resilience: With certain urban areas in Nagaland, such as Dimapur, being prone to landslides, the Department of Geology and the district Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) collaborate to monitor at-risk areas. They work with UDD & MA to implement protective infrastructure, supplementing landslip prevention and disaster readiness measures.
Policy and Support Frameworks for Urban Services: The orientation detailed the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023 and related urban policies, giving councillors an understanding of the regulatory frameworks and roles mandated for municipal bodies. The councillors learned about policy planning, the need-based deployment of engineering and accounting staff, and periodic civil maintenance procedures supported by UDD & MA.
Municipal Systems and Processes: Councillors were briefed on legislative procedures, mobilizing volunteers for welfare and development, facilitating micro-planning for ward development, and ensuring that public health, conservancy, and other municipal services reach the population.
Municipal Funds:
Funds for ULBs come from various sources:
Tax Revenue: Advertisement, animal, vacant land, and vehicle taxes.
Non-Tax Revenue: User charges, municipal fees, sales, and leases.
Other Receipts: Fees, fines, rent, and miscellaneous sales.
Shared Revenue: Entertainment, stamp duty surcharge, profession, and vehicle taxes.
Grants: Specific and non-specific project funding.
Loans: Capital projects funded by financial institutions and bonds.
In conclusion the resource persons said that Capacity-building activities and training are essential for strengthening ULB leadership. Newly elected members will gain a better understanding of their roles in policymaking, decision-making, service delivery, and resource mobilization through ongoing training which will enhance local governance, efficiency and accountability.
(I.Tiakumla.Ao, IA, Dimapur)
