Supongmeren seeks expansion of NABARD, train service extension into Nagaland

DIMAPUR — Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir has urged the Centre to strengthen development and connectivity in Nagaland by expanding the coverage of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and extending a passenger train service into the state.

According to an update, Jamir raised concern that the NABARD has only a limited presence in Nagaland compared to neighbouring Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Out of the 17 districts in the state, only five are covered through the Dimapur regional office, staffed by around 15 personnel. Four more districts are being managed by two Assistant General Managers without supporting staff, leaving 12 districts without dedicated NABARD establishments.

In this connection, he urged Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to appoint adequate staff and ensure all districts of Nagaland are brought under NABARD coverage.

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The MP also reiterated the demand for extending the BG Express (Train No. 15665) from Mariani in Assam to Tuli in Nagaland. He noted that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly had passed a resolution on the matter on April 30 this year, which was later conveyed by the State Transport Department to NF Railway in May.

Stating that this would not involve creation of a new service but only the extension of an existing passenger train on a constructed but unutilised line, Jamir appealed to Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to take up the matter on priority, the update stated.

He expressed hope that the Centre would address both issues in the interest of balanced development and improved connectivity for Nagaland and the North East.