Neiphiu Rio urges NITI Aayog to fast-track rail, air and highway projects and boost funding for Nagaland.
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DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday once again urged the Centre and NITI Aayog to provide enhanced fiscal support and fast-track key infrastructure projects in the state during a high-level NITI Aayog interaction with chief ministers from the north-eastern states in New Delhi.
According to a DIPR update, Rio sought annual Special Grants to offset the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants under the 16th Finance Commission, saying such support was essential for fiscal sustainability and the uninterrupted delivery of public services.
The chief minister also pressed for accelerated investment in connectivity projects, including the Foothill Road (Trans-Nagaland Highway), extension of the Dimapur-Zubza railway line to Kohima, early sanction of the Dimapur-Tizit railway project, development of inland waterways and improved air connectivity through short landing strips at strategic locations.
To address rapid urbanisation, Rio sought support for flyovers and elevated corridors in Dimapur, Kohima and Chümoukedima, while also requesting assistance for establishing an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Nagaland and strengthening tertiary healthcare facilities, including financial support for the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research in Kohima.
Rio pitches Foothill Road, IIT, AIIMS and airport projects at NITI Aayog meet
Highlighting the proposed Nagaki City in Chümoukedima district as a transformative economic project, he appealed for special assistance to develop core infrastructure and attract investment.
He also sought support for expanding coffee cultivation, promoting agarwood-based livelihoods, implementing hydroelectric projects and strengthening sports infrastructure and youth development programmes.
Rio informed the meeting that Nagaland, Assam and the government of India had signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate mineral oil operations in the disputed area belt along the Assam-Nagaland border.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would unlock new economic opportunities and enhance India's energy security through the resumption of petroleum and natural gas exploration in the state.
Reaffirming Nagaland's commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, the chief minister said that the state looked forward to continued partnership with the Centre and NITI Aayog to advance inclusive and sustainable development.