Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio speaking at the State Round Table of the North East Global Investors Summit 2023 in Chumukedima on Saturday highlighted the investment potential of Nagaland and the efforts of his government to create an investment-friendly ecosystem. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Ministry of DoNER for providing the platform and emphasized the collective commitment and concern towards the growth and development of the state and the entire Northeast region.
Chief Minister Rio highlighted the establishment of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), a dedicated government agency for investments and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. IDAN serves as a single window clearance center, advocating investment and corporate-friendly policies, and facilitating ease of doing business in the state.
“My Government has come up with guidelines to ensure smooth and easy availability of land in the state for investors,” he said.
Rio further stated that various policies are being prepared to provide facilitation services to investors at all stages, encouraging them to resolve administrative barriers. This initiative aims to establish a more vibrant and functional mechanism that fosters effective communication between investors and the government.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence in the entrepreneurial spirit of the Nagas, noting that they are venturing into unconventional and profitable career paths, with the potential to become job creators and transform Nagaland into a commercial hub. Investments in entrepreneurship are expected to generate revenue and uplift the socio-economic and living standards of the people.
Transportation was also highlighted as a priority, with the government actively pursuing the development of an inland waterway in the Tizu-Zungki river, which flows east into Myanmar. This initiative aims to facilitate cost-effective transportation and promote trade and commerce between India and Myanmar, as well as establish a link with Southeast Asian countries.
Chief Minister Rio recognized the State Roundtable Meet as an opportunity to showcase Nagaland’s growth story and the achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “AtmaNirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) policy. He reiterated the significance of human capital investment, as human resources play a crucial role in collective growth and have significantly contributed to the development of the country.
The speech by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio underscored Nagaland’s potential as an investment destination, the government’s commitment to creating a favorable business environment, and the transformative impact that investments can have on the socio-economic landscape of the state.
Relied on data-driven decision-making: DoNER
Secretary of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Lok Ranjan, emphasized the importance of collaboration and leveraging the region’s resources to generate wealth. Despite limited resources, the ministry relied on data-driven decision-making and objective assessments, Ranjan said, and outlined various sectors, including primary, agricultural and allied, tourism, startups, and small to medium enterprises, where opportunities for growth could be harnessed.
Ranjan also highlighted the ministry’s focus on fostering an ecosystem approach in collaboration with leading institutions in each sector. The positive response to this approach has laid the foundation for continued efforts in promoting the growth of the Northeast region, Ranjan said. He emphasized that the goal is not only to promote the welfare of individual entities but also to contribute to nation-building and the overall development of a new India.
Solution to Naga political soon: TR Zeliang
Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang acknowledged the challenges faced by Nagaland, including the prolonged unresolved “Indo-Naga political issue” which disrupted the state’s progress. However, he expressed optimism that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, a solution to the political issue would be achieved soon. Zeliang believed that once the political issue is resolved, all fears and apprehensions in the minds of investors would dissipate, leading to a boom in investments in Nagaland.
Focused on infrastructure development: Alam
Speaking on the topic “Nagaland – An Emerging Investment Destination,” Chief Secretary J Alam emphasized the state government’s initiatives in strengthening infrastructural development. The focus on infrastructure not only facilitates the movement of goods and services but also streamlines logistics, reduces costs, and increases efficiency for businesses, creating a favorable business environment.
Alam highlighted the talented and skilled workforce of Nagaland, known for their resilience, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. He noted that the state’s high literacy rate, exceeding 80%, provides a pool of capable individuals eager to contribute to the state’s growth and economy.
The Chief Secretary also mentioned the favorable policy framework in place to attract investments, including the Nagaland Startup Policy 2019 and the forthcoming revision of the Nagaland State Industrial Policy, which aims to provide special incentives for export-oriented units. Additionally, the state government is finalizing the Nagaland State Logistics Policy to further facilitate business operations.
During the concluding remarks, Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor, Industries and Commerce, highlighted Nagaland’s strategic location, rich cultural heritage, and various sectors with investment potential, including agriculture and allied industries, tourism, handicrafts, handloom, and IT. She invited all companies and organizations at the summit to take advantage of the state’s unique strengths and resources.