The State Geological Programming Board, in its meeting at Dimapur, said the department has slogged for the last 3-4 decades despite fund constraint
DIPR
Dimapur, July 31
The 34th State Geological Programming Board (SGPB) meeting was held at the Directorate of Geology & Mining, Conference hall, Dimapur today.
The Chairman SDPB and Secretary Department of Geology & Mining, Bendang Longchar, IAS in his address expressed optimism saying that in spite of fund constraint the department’s activities including mineral exploration is being undertaken in the right direction. The department has slogged for the last 3-4 decades, which has culminated to explore minerals and petroleum products as of today. He said that though Nagaland State is a small geographically, it is endowed with rich diverse mineral resources and in order to uplift the economy of the state one has to utilize them to our advantage. He therefore called upon the officers and staff of the department to be sincere and dedicated in their assigned tasks. He also sought the continued support of all NGO’s and civil societies in their endeavour. He further added that many big companies are willing to step in and invest in Nagaland, however, one should be willing to give them the right investment atmosphere. He expressed hoped that exploration and production of petroleum may start shortly as the government is sincerely working for it including taking over of the main cement planted Wezihu with signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). A short documentary of mineral belt in Nagaland state was also shown on the occasion.
Earlier, Director of Geology & Mining (DGM) SK Kanye delivered the introductory address saying that Minerals plays an important role in sustainable economy growth therefore the department is starting to derive the optimum benefit from the mineral resources of the state. He stated that under the department, coal mining sector had successfully achieved its target of generating Rs. 99,03,150 revenue during the year 2013-14. Significant achievement has also been made towards ground water development in the hill state.
This was followed by a technical session, approval of field session programme 2014-15 and discussion of Agenda items. Addl. Director DGM, Wanthang, delivered the vote of thanks.
