Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio announced a new tripartite agreement between Nagaland, Assam, and the Indian government to restart oil exploration in the disputed border region. Speaking at a NITI Aayog meeting in New Delhi, the Chief Minister emphasized that this initiative aims to strengthen national energy security and drive regional economic growth. He noted that, "Efforts are underway for the resumption of petroleum and natural gas exploration and production activities in Nagaland."
Beyond the energy sector, Dr. Rio presented a broad development agenda to align the state with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. He characterized Nagaland as a resource-constrained state and requested special financial grants from the Sixteenth Finance Commission to address ongoing revenue deficits. The Chief Minister emphasized that improved connectivity remains central to the state's economic transformation, specifically highlighting the Trans-Nagaland Highway and the need for expanded air and rail links, including the extension of the Dimapur-Zubza line to Kohima.
To manage rapid urbanization, Dr. Rio requested federal support for new flyovers and elevated corridors in Dimapur, Kohima, and Chümoukedima. His proposals also included the establishment of an Indian Institute of Technology and increased funding for the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. The Chief Minister concluded by seeking investment for the proposed Nagaki City project and expanded support for agricultural sectors like coffee and agarwood cultivation, as well as new hydroelectric power initiatives.
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