State’s political and administrative leadership unite to plan a roadmap for Viksit Bharat
The State’s entire political and administrative leadership came together under one roof on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, for a high-level deliberation on the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and its roadmap for Nagaland. The meeting was convened at the State Banquet Hall, Chief Minister’s Residential Complex, Kohima, bringing together all 60 elected legislators, senior bureaucrats, Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police from all 17 districts, along with department heads and key government officials.
Chaired by Development Commissioner Temsunaro Aier, IAS, the gathering was described as a landmark convergence of policymakers committed to shaping a progressive and prosperous Nagaland.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, in his keynote address, reflected on the historical roots of the Naga movement and the significance of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system. He also recalled that prior to 1989, Nagaland’s financial year began with a zero-deficit budget.
Highlighting the importance of effective implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, Dr Rio cautioned that delays or inefficiencies in fund utilization could lead to the return of unspent funds—with interest—to the Centre.
He further called for unity among the Naga people and a team effort by all stakeholders to achieve the shared aspiration of a “Viksit Nagaland” in sync with the national goal for 2047.
On indigenous rights and legal vigilance
Touching on pressing administrative matters, Dr Rio stressed the need for strict verification while issuing Indigenous Inhabitant Certificates. He stressed the need for thorough verification to avoid future complications or unintended consequences.
State priorities: Health, self-employment, governance
Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang highlighted two of the State’s flagship welfare schemes—the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) and the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI). While CMHIS aims to provide universal health coverage, CMMFI is designed to empower farmers and entrepreneurs, especially youth, with subsidized credit and technological support.
Deputy Chief Minister, Home & Border Affairs, Y Patton, highlighted three critical issues requiring immediate attention: the Protected Area Permit (PAP), Inner Line Permit (ILP), and Free Movement Regime (FMR). He stressed that reforming these systems was essential for the overall welfare and security of the State. While recognizing the recent implementation of the ILP in the districts of Dimapur, Chumoukedima and Niuland, Patton expressed the government’s openness to constructive suggestions from the public to enhance and strengthen the ILP system further. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding Article 371(A), asserting that it was crucial to ensure the protection of the rights and freedoms of the Naga people from external interference.
Roadmap to Viksit Nagaland unveiled
Chief Secretary Dr J Alam, IAS presented the State’s “Viksit Nagaland for Viksit Bharat @2047” guiding principle with a data-driven PowerPoint, focusing on areas such as:
· Zero poverty
· Skilling and employment
· Agri-tech innovation
· Water security
· Creative economy
· Urbanization and infrastructure
· Digital transformation
· Green and sustainable industries
He underscored the State’s untapped potential in oil, minerals, and tourism, and called for structured planning to harness Nagaland’s demographic and natural advantages.
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Concluding the day-long deliberation, Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio, stated that the State cannot proceed with the exploration and exploitation of oil and natural gas until the court delivers a clear and definitive verdict. Citing a Geology & Mining survey, he noted the potential discovery of rare earth minerals during the extraction of oil and gas in the State.
Referring to the Village Councils Act of 1978, he urged village authorities to promptly submit relevant cases to the administrative officers for decisions in accordance with government rules and regulations. He stressed the need for regular consultations at all levels and called on the administrative and police authorities to exercise their powers efficiently.
Rio also proposed organizing awareness campaigns, recommending that all administrative officers, police personnel, and staff from the Directorates participate actively.
On the matter of customary laws, he mentioned that an Apex Court would be established to ensure swift and cost-effective justice.
Regarding the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN), he advocated for a digital and online system, emphasizing the shared responsibility between Village Councils and District Administrations. He called on citizens to act responsibly by reporting any foreign visitors to the nearest police station.