Mokokchung, March 21 (MTNews): Governor of Nagaland La Ganesan delivered his maiden address to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly today. During his speech, he stated that due to the unresolved Naga Political Issue, the smooth progress of the State toward growth and development was being impeded and, therefore, stressed on the need for an early solution through the peace process that is honorable, acceptable, and inclusive.
The Governor also referred to the demand for a separate state by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO), asserting that consultations were on for a sustainable resolution of the matter. He added that the state government was committed to assisting the process so that the grievances of the people of eastern Nagaland are addressed by bridging development deficits at the earliest.
On the conduct of the long pending elections to the state’s urban local bodies, the governor said the polls and constitution of the local bodies as per the provisions of the Constitution and in compliance with the directives of the Supreme Court are critical for the equitable development, growth and progress of the state’s cities and towns.
“I call upon everyone concerned to come forward and assist in the successful conduct of the elections in the interest of the people and the state,” Ganesan said. He added that the state government remains committed to ensuring the maintenance of law and order and a peaceful atmosphere.
On the construction of the Foothill Road, he said the state government will continue to take steps for early construction of the Foothill Road (Trans Nagaland Highway), a 320 KM stretch of road. He informed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase I and II of this proposed road project has been submitted to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
Governor La Ganesan also asserted that the state government is making necessary efforts to fully establish the Medical College in Kohima and start it from the academic year 2023-2024. He informed the state is also taking up with the GoI for converting it into a central institute such as Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) at Imphal, or as an AIIMS-like Institute, which he said would help it to grow further, provide sustainability, as well as address the various capacity constraints.
Ganesan further said that the Government remains committed to ensuring the maintenance of law and order for a peaceful atmosphere in the State and the proactive management of Law and Order with better Police-Public Partnership. He also said that the State Police will improve the forensic capabilities for scientific investigation which will help in better presentation of evidence.
Further, Governor La Ganesan sought the assistance and participation of the people for the various G20 events and the Business Meet slated to take place at Kohima on 5 April 2023.
The Motion of thanks to the Governor’s address was moved by Advisor Tongpang Ozukum, and Advisor H Tovihoto Ayemi seconded the Motion.