A delegation of legislators from Wokha led by Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland Yanthungo Patton called on Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh at New Delhi
DIMAPUR — A delegation of legislators from Wokha called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh at New Delhi, on Thursday to discuss key developmental issues related to connectivity, infrastructure, livelihoods and human-wildlife conflict.
Led by Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland Yanthungo Patton, who is also Minister in-charge of Home and Border Affairs, the delegation included Advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan (39 Sanis Assembly Constituency); MLA Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe (38 Wokha Assembly Constituency); and MLA and Chairman of SPDB Bhandari Achumbemo Kikon (40 Bhandari Assembly Constituency), informed an update from Press Information Bureau (PIB).
During the meeting, the delegation raised several issues concerning Wokha and adjoining areas, including the proposal to declare the Wokha–Merapani road up to Golaghat as a National Highway and upgrading of the Wokha–Bokajan road.
They also highlighted the need for key infrastructure at the Wokha district headquarters, including a District Office Complex, Multipurpose Market Complex, stadium and approach roads, besides the poor road condition that has disrupted the movement of people and economic activities in the area, it was informed. They also discussed broader development trajectory of Nagaland and the North-Eastern Region.
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Citing the recurring human-elephant conflict in Wokha district that often causes destruction to crop, damage property, and threat to human lives, the delegation sought a comprehensive policy response along with a special package for affected areas.
Responding to the issues raised, the Union Minister told the delegation that such challenges require a balanced approach that protects the livelihoods and interests of local communities while safeguarding the region's rich wildlife, for which coordinated efforts among the concerned agencies is required.
On developmental concerns raised during the meeting, he said that they would be considered in the context of the larger effort to strengthen connectivity and infrastructure across the North-East.
The objective is not merely to create physical infrastructure but to ensure that improved connectivity translates into better opportunities, stronger livelihoods and greater participation of the region in India’s growth story, said Singh.