Nagaland: Heritage and potential drive Tseminyu’s journey as 13th district

DIMAPUR — Tseminyu became Nagaland’s 13th district on December 18, 2021, and was officially inaugurated on February 24, 2022, by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who described it as the “historical district.”

Highlighting their role in key historical events such as the creation of the first Naga flag, participation in the Naga Club memorandum to the Simon Commission, and involvement in the 9-Point and 16-Point Agreements, Rio said that the Rengmas’ contributions to Naga society went beyond their community.

At the inauguration, he shared that upgrading Tseminyu to a district was a consensus decision.

Also read: Rio says Frontier Nagaland Territory issue nearing resolution

With a population of 56,844 (2011 Census) and 40 villages, the district has a literacy rate of 67.73%. Its main rivers are Nra and Nzü, and major crops include rice, maize, beans and colocasia. The Rengma Nagas celebrate Ngada, their major festival, in November.

Development so far

A district administrative official told Eastern Mirror that progress has been gradual over the past three years. Offices of the deputy commissioner and superintendent of police have been established, while other departments are slowly setting up their presence.

New offices are being proposed to enhance governance and services are becoming more accessible, providing people with increased opportunities.

According to the official, urbanisation is visible at the district headquarters with growing investment in infrastructure and small businesses such as shops, gyms, car washes, barber shops, and cafés. “People have developed a strong sense of district identity boosting local identity, culture, sports and festivals”, the officer said.

Ongoing projects

Prominent development works include the construction of the deputy commissioner’s office, SP office, DIPR office, DEO office, and STO office. Under the NEP-NECTAR project, work is underway on a new Government Higher Secondary School building, boys’ and girls’ hostels. A Border Roads Organisation project has also been initiated.

Other works include the One Stop Centre under the Social Welfare department, a road from RSA ground to Khenyu village, and another from Tesophenyu village gate to Phiro village.

Projects in process include a marketing complex and Tseminyu Town Council office, a district judicial complex, and blacktopping of the road from the highway to the DC office complex. Several other developmental works are expected to come, the officer said.

Urgent attention           

The official said that priority areas include construction of a district hospital, government college, improved roads and drainage, revamping of the EAC office in Tsogin and manpower rationalisation in the district.

An educator posted in the district said poor telecom service remains a major concern, adding that while electricity supply is reliable, network disruptions occur whenever power fails.

She also pointed out the poor condition of internal roads in Tseminyu town and villages, though the highway is relatively better.

The administrative official said the district has potential in eco-tourism and rural-based tourism, highlighting the potential of Sendenyu village and its biodiversity conservation area for hiking and nature-based activities.

Other attractions include Nsonji Lake, the historic Perashen site where the first Naga flag was hoisted, the Nra and Nzü rivers, and Mt. Terogvu, the highest point in the district which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding districts and neighbouring state. Sites such as Khuvü Rock cliff and Ponsükha hill in Tesophenyu also offer scope for rock climbing and hiking.

“The villages under Tseminyu district are known for its friendly, clean and culturally rich tradition and customs offering a good scope for rural tourism. Besides, each and every village has historical places, monuments and legends to offer for tourist,” the officer shared.

The Ngada festival, observed in the last week of November and integrated into the mini Hornbill festival, is a major cultural highlight and tourist attraction.

The official added that the district also has opportunities in agriculture, piggery, and poultry, which, along with tourism, could contribute to the state’s economic growth.

Further, Tseminyu’s strategic location, connectivity, and proximity to the state capital make it an attractive prospect for further development.

With investments in infrastructure and human resources, the district could tap into its potential in tourism, agriculture, livestock farming, sports, and music, driving growth and progress, the officer reiterated.

(This report is part of a series focusing on development works in Nagaland's newly recognised districts, providing an in-depth look at the progress and challenges in these areas.)