NPF slams ‘misleading’ media report, cites Nagaland’s improved SDG ranking

DIMAPUR — The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has criticised what it described as a “misleading and irresponsible” television report that portrayed Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as one of the “worst-performing” chief ministers, saying the narrative was based on outdated data and did not reflect Nagaland’s recent progress.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the party said that the latest NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index 2023–24 showed significant improvement, with three districts from Nagaland ranked among the top ten performing districts in the country.

This was a reflection of the state government’s commitment to inclusive growth, balanced regional development, and people-centric governance, it stated.

According to the party, the TV channel had earlier used data from 2021–22 and carried sensational captions such as “Is Neiphiu Rio the Worst CM?”, calling the report both misleading and irresponsible.

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The party stated that while it upheld press freedom, responsible journalism required accuracy, fairness and balance, adding that sensational reporting undermined credibility and distorted public understanding.

“The party views such narratives as biased, counterproductive, and detrimental to healthy public discourse,” it added.

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The statement further recalled that Rio, during the 7th governing council meeting of NITI Aayog in August 2022, had outlined several developmental proposals, including the Tizu Valley Hydro-Electric Project, solar PV grids at Sub-Zhadima, a 132 kV transmission system along the Foothill Road, smart-meter installations in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Kohima, and last-mile rural electrification.

It also noted his call for special consideration for small revenue-deficit states and his proposals for an A320-capable airport and model degree colleges in remote areas, describing them as part of a forward-looking vision for connectivity and inclusive education.

“Such foresight and planning are now bearing fruit, as evidenced by the state’s improved standing in the latest SDG Index,” it maintained.

With the recent merger and what it described as “overwhelming support of the people,” the party stated that Nagaland was on a path of development, stability, and progress.