Kohima: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio officially launched the Chief Minister’s Fellowship Programme, Nagaland, and a research project with the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. The ceremony took place Thursday at the CMRC Conference Hall in Kohima. These initiatives aim to map out a resilient future for the state by targeting agriculture, tourism, music, and the arts.
IDAN and NEDFi are driving the joint venture. The research, titled Strategic Interventions for Endogenous Development through Export Promotion of Niche Agricultural Products, Advancement in the Creative Economy, and Diversification of Investment in Nagaland, covers all 17 districts. It includes data from nearly 300 villages and over 8,000 stakeholder inputs. The study identified clear strengths in textiles and human capital, while exposing gaps in market linkages and value addition.
Eighteen fellows will join the program. They will gain mentorship across government departments, flagship projects, and the Hornbill Festival. Rio wants real results. He told the cohort: "The programme must extend beyond routine assignments and certificates."
The state budget for 2025-26 set aside Rs 2.50 crore for this fellowship. Officials want to build an investment-ready economy that links public money with private business. Under Secretary I Changsang chaired the event, while Additional Secretary Vineet Kumar closed with remarks thanking the contributors.
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