Nagaland looks to fulfill ‘dreams and aspiration’, seeks support of Finance Commission

Naga Republic News

With the Fifteenth Finance Commission on an official visit to the State, the Nagaland government has used the opportunity to put forward, what Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio termed as, the ‘dreams and aspirations’ of the people of the State.

“All these dreams and aspirations need the support of Government of India. We look forward to the recommendations of the 15^th Finance Commission that will help address the bottlenecks and development gaps of our State and give us the flexibility to make the right interventions for our people”, Rio said in his speech delivered at the State dinner for the Fifteenth Finance Commission on November 27.

The Finance Commission led by the Chairman Nand Kishore Singh arrived at Kohima. Other members are Dr. Anoop Singh, Arvind Metha, Member Secretary, Mukhmeet S. Bhatia, Jt. Secretary, Ravi Kota, Jt. Secretary, Antony Cyriac, Economic Advisor, Bharat Bhusan Garg, Director and OSD to Chairman 15th FC, Shikha Dahiya, Ritesh Kumar, Salam S. Singh, Pankaj Gera, Aniket, Mrs. Prem Kumar and Mrs. Gita Metha.

While welcoming the members, Rio hoped that the discussions and interactions over the next two days will help the Commission to understand the challenges we have in a diverse country like India.

“The recommendations of the Commission will help balance regional aspirations and expectations for optimal and balanced distribution of resources. This will ensure leveraging the relative strengths of all States and all regions”, Rio said.

Making a mention of the Naga political issue, the Nagaland CM said that because of the long period of struggle and violence in the State, “the full potential and growth of the state has been impeded by the unresolved issue of the Naga political struggle”.

“With almost 21 years of Peace Process and 3 years since signing of the Framework agreement, we are hopeful of a final settlement of the Naga Political Issue which is inclusive, honourable and acceptable to the people. With Peace, we will be able to ensure that our people can live their dreams and fulfil their aspirations”, Rio pointed out.

The CM told the Finance Commission that one of the “dreams is to make Tourism the mainstay” of Nagaland’s economy and mentioned about the Mini Hornbill, and the culmination of all tribal festivals at Kisama in Kohima as the Hornbill Festival.

Rio informed that over the years, the Hornbill Festival has become one of the most important tourism events, not only in India but also worldwide.

“The festival provides Nagaland the platform to showcase the unique culture of the Nagas in its full glory. It also portrays the love and determination of the Naga people for preserving tradition and culture, which is the hallmark of our identity”.

Rio also spoke about the youth of Nagaland and their aspiration and enthusiasm to do more and to achieve more. The CM also informed the visitors about Nagaland taking part in the Ranji trophy for the first time “and doing well”.

Mention was also made about Temsutula Imsong – a daughter of Nagaland who is credited with the clean ghats of Varanasi. Another Naga woman – Chiewelou Thele – was adjudged the best trainee commando in her batch of police officers at Delhi Police and was chosen as “the poster girl for Delhi Police”.

Rio further stated that jawaans and officers of Naga Regiment have done the nation proud – be it at Kargil War, Bangladesh War or fighting Naxals in difficult terrains, there are stories of bravery and valor of Naga warriors that are recounted often.

Also there are many more talented and spirited Naga boys and girls – from music to fashion to crafts – who are making the Nation proud with their accomplishments, Rio stated.

Coming to more serious matters, the CM pointed out that infrastructure development is key for helping Nagaland catch up with mainland States in terms of economic development.

Finance Commission met the representatives of rural and urban local bodies and #tribal Ho Hos in Kohima today. Their revenue raising capabilities and issues specific to Village Councils and Village Development Boards discussed. #Nagaland visit. @Neiphiu_Rio pic.twitter.com/0SVOFfeScv

— Finance Commission of India (@15thFinCom) November 27, 2018

Also connectivity within the State as also with other States of the North East will help create opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses, Rio advocated.

Rio also mentioned that the ongoing road projects in the State and “pursuing Ciethu airport at capital Kohima, once completed can transform the State”. “With direct connectivity with mainland and South East Asia, there will be a huge market for our produce and products”, the CM said.

The CM also said that the strength of Nagaland was its organic farm produce, flowers and fruits. In this regard, he mentioned that the “rare medicinal plants and herbs can help create jobs and boost the economy”.

Rio further highlighted about the high literacy rate, a young population which is fluent in English, IT savvy and with a progressive outlook can help transform the region into a hub for the services industry.

“A Call Centre is already operational in Kohima and we are pursuing for another call centre in Dimapur. With investments in IT connectivity, this has the potential of bridging the geographical remoteness of the State”.