The Fourth Nagaland State Finance Commission, constituted by the Government of Nagaland, has invited suggestions from the general public, institutions, and organizations on issues related to its terms of reference. The commission, established through Finance Department Notification October 25, 2024, is chaired by Sarah R Ritse, a retired Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Nagaland.
The commission will make recommendations for a five-year period, starting from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031. Its mandate includes addressing principles governing the distribution of taxes, duties, tolls, and fees between the state and municipalities, determining taxes to be assigned or appropriated by municipalities, and recommending grants-in-aid to municipalities from the Consolidated Fund of the State.
Additionally, the commission will propose measures to improve the financial position of municipalities, examine the rates of taxes, tolls, and fees that can be levied by municipalities, and determine methods for the same. Other matters related to municipal finances may also be referred to the commission by the government.
The commission has been tasked with considering the balancing of receipts and expenditures of the state and local bodies to generate surplus for capital investment. It will also evaluate the resources and demands on the state government, including civil administration, maintenance of capital assets, expenditures on plan schemes, and other liabilities. Furthermore, it will assess the requirements of municipalities, their potential to raise resources, and methods to reduce expenditures.
Members of the public, institutions, and organizations are encouraged to submit their suggestions on these issues. Submissions can be sent via post to the Member Secretary, Fourth Nagaland State Finance Commission, Directorate of Treasuries and Accounts Building, First Floor, New Capital Complex, Kohima, or via email to fourthfincom2024@gmail.com.
The deadline for submissions is March 31, 2025. The commission emphasized that public contributions will play a vital role in helping municipalities and town councils improve their services to the public.