Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio met with NITI Aayog leadership in New Delhi on Friday to advocate for fiscal assistance and critical infrastructure development across the state. Rio emphasized that despite recent progress, the state remains resource-constrained and faces significant financial hurdles due to the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants under the 16th Finance Commission. He requested annual Special Grants to ensure the continuity of essential public services.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted a landmark tripartite agreement signed between Nagaland, Assam, and the Centre. This deal aims to facilitate petroleum and natural gas exploration in the disputed border areas. Rio noted that the agreement would create economic opportunities and bolster national energy security while adding that it remains a priority to resume these activities while "safeguarding constitutional provisions."
Connectivity remains a top priority for the state government. Rio requested support for the 364-kilometer Foothill Road, which he envisions as an economic corridor linking agricultural and industrial hubs. He also pushed for air and rail expansions, including the construction of short landing strips, the extension of the Dimapur-Zubza railway, and approval for the Dimapur-Tizit rail project. To combat urban traffic, he proposed building 14 flyovers and elevated corridors in the Kohima and Dimapur-Chümoukedima regions.
The Chief Minister outlined several major institutional goals, including the establishment of an IIT at the proposed Nagaki City and the development of a Greenfield AIIMS. He also called for continued support for the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. On the agricultural front, Rio sought backing for the state’s coffee brand and the expansion of the agarwood value chain to provide new livelihoods for residents.
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