In the backdrop of the NSCN (IM) announcing ‘tax exemption’ for fresh Naga entrepreneurs for the first two years, the Business Association of Nagas (BAN) has appealed to all the Naga political groups to extend the exemption to all Naga traders.
In a press release issued on Sunday, the traders’ group reasoned that most Naga entrepreneurs were “first-generation businessmen” whose numbers are few compared to the non-Naga business community.
“We face a tough time managing our businesses in the very competitive business environment. Moreover, with government jobs getting scarce, Nagas have no option but to venture into business for survival. Under such circumstances, it is only logical that all Naga entrepreneurs are exempted from taxation,” it stated.
The BAN appreciated the NSCN (IM)’s commitment to take action against Nagas leasing the name of their business to non-Nagas and their assurance that agriculture products traded locally will not be taxed.
“Importantly, BAN appreciates the commitment of NSCN (IM) that they will not utilise the service of non-Nagas for collection of taxes,” stated the association.