Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, visited Mokokchung on Monday to review the progress of centrally sponsored schemes and assess ongoing infrastructure projects, including the proposed heliport site at Ungma village.
During a meeting with Heads of Departments (HoDs) and representatives of civil society at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Mohol praised the Nagaland government and Mokokchung district for effectively implementing government schemes despite the challenges posed by the state’s difficult terrain.
He also mentioned that the Union government is committed to uplifting the living standards of all sections of people and that he was eager to work with the state government for all-round development.
As part of his visit, Mohol held a separate meeting with the Department of Registrar of Cooperative Societies (RCS) and reviewed the status of cooperative initiatives, including the computerisation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).
He encouraged officials to promote cooperative societies’ participation in national programs such as the National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL).
Later, the minister visited several key sites, including the proposed heliport at Ungma village, the Mini Dairy Cooperative Plant at Marepkong ward, and the Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) Centre, Impur. He also toured Etiben Tower and Sungkotenem Park in Mopungchuket village.
During his visit, Wing Commander S Akheto Jakhalu, VSM (Retd.), OSD (Projects) for defence-related infrastructure in Nagaland and Mizoram, briefed Mohol on the strategic need for improved air connectivity in Nagaland.
According to an official update, during the minister’s visit to the proposed heliport site at Ungma, the minister was briefed about the ongoing development of heliports across Mokokchung and five other districts, with Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) currently in their final stages.
Mohol reportedly assured full support from the Ministry of Civil Aviation to strengthen Nagaland’s air infrastructure under various central government schemes. “The Minister of State for Civil Aviation assured all assistance and support needed in the state of Nagaland to build up much needed ecosystem for enhanced Air connectivity under various central schemes under Government of India,” the update read.
Sharing updates on social media platform X, the minister highlighted the Modi government’s focus on the Northeast, writing, “While realising the resolution of Developed India 2047, it is the priority of the Modi government that North East should also be an important part of this development journey.”
He also confirmed that Pawan Hans has been tasked with preparing DPRs for five new heliports in the state, adding, “Under the leadership of Hon. PM Narendra Modi, in the last 10 years air connectivity has expanded to the whole of India. In North East region, air travel and creation of infrastructure related work is being taken up on priority.”
Mohol will conclude his visit to Mokokchung on Tuesday, March 4. He is on his maiden visit to Nagaland. The MoS was on a three-day visit to Mokokchung district, arriving on March 2 by road from Jorhat airport.
Nagaland, the ‘Switzerland of the East’, will be strengthened in cooperative sector: Mohol
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, has lauded the natural beauty of Mokokchung district during his maiden visit to Nagaland, describing the region as both scenic and welcoming.
Expressing his admiration for the district, the minister remarked that although it was his first time in Mokokchung, he “did not feel like an outsider but rather felt at home,” acknowledging the warm hospitality extended to him.
During his stop at Mopungchuket village, Mohol climbed to the top of the iconic Etiben Memorial Tower, where he was left in awe of the landscape. Taking in panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, he expressed wonder at the area’s scenic charm.
Taking to social media platform X, Mohol echoed his appreciation, while affirming the Centre’s commitment to the growth of Nagaland’s cooperative sector.
“Under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi and Home and Cooperatives Minister Amit Shah’s leadership, strengthening of Cooperatives across the country is happening. The ‘Switzerland of the East’ Nagaland will also be made strong in the Cooperative sector,” he posted.
Mohol’s remarks came as part of his three-day visit to Mokokchung district, during which he reviewed central government schemes and inspected key infrastructure projects, including a proposed heliport site at Ungma village and the Mini Dairy Cooperative Plant in Marepkong.
Widely known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, Nagaland has long been compared to “Switzerland” for its natural beauty. Mohol’s comments further reinforced the region’s potential for tourism and sustainable development alongside cooperative growth.
