Photo Courtesy: northeasttoday
Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio met with the NITI Aayog vice chairman to discuss the state's development priorities, focusing on infrastructure, connectivity, and fiscal sustainability. Rio highlighted the financial pressure on the state following the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants and urged the Centre to provide annual Special Grants to ensure long-term stability.
During the meeting, Rio underscored the importance of road and rail projects. He requested support for the 364-km Foothill Road, which he envisions as a critical economic corridor. The Chief Minister also pushed for the expansion of the Dimapur-Zubza railway line and the advancement of the Dimapur-Tizit rail project. To combat urban congestion in Kohima and the Dimapur-Chumoukedima region, he proposed building 14 flyovers and elevated corridors.
The state is also seeking the establishment of key national institutions. Rio requested an Indian Institute of Technology for Nagaki City and a Greenfield AIIMS to bolster regional education and healthcare. Regarding the state's industrial and agricultural goals, Rio noted the potential of coffee cultivation and the need for value-chain development for agarwood. He also reaffirmed the state's commitment to resuming petroleum exploration in the Disputed Area Belt.
Rio praised NITI Aayog for its role in the state's progress, noting, "The institution had strengthened Nagaland's development planning and accelerated progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030." He concluded by expressing his gratitude for the continued partnership between the state and the central planning body.
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