Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday called for greater cooperation among the North Eastern states to strengthen democratic institutions and accelerate regional development, even as he urged the Centre to fast-track key infrastructure and educational projects in Nagaland.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the 22nd Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone–III Conference in Kohima, Rio said that despite being rich in mineral resources, Nagaland remained a “resource-constrained state” due to limited exploration and connectivity. He reiterated his appeal to the Central Government to expedite the establishment of an Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in the state and to upgrade the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (NIMSR) into an AIIMS-like institution.
Rio also called for renewed attention to the proposed Dimapur–Tizit railway line and the Ciethu Airport project in Kohima, describing both as “crucial for economic growth and integration.”
“Connectivity is not just about roads or air links—it is the bridge to opportunity,” he said.
Highlighting Nagaland’s absence of national-level institutions such as IITs or National Law Universities, the Chief Minister said such gaps hindered local talent retention and innovation. “Our youth have the ability, but they need the institutions and infrastructure to match their aspirations,” he said.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the re-imposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP), which he said had discouraged external investment in the state. He urged the Centre to review the policy and consider mechanisms that balance security concerns with economic development.
Rio underscored the importance of including the North East in the India–ASEAN Vision for Trade and Cooperation, advocating for greater cross-border exchanges, improved infrastructure, and stronger people-to-people ties. “The North East is India’s natural gateway to Southeast Asia, and our policies must reflect that strategic position,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the two-day CPA conference would “strengthen democratic institutions, deepen regional cooperation, and create a shared framework for progress across the North Eastern states.”
