The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has expressed satisfaction over “notable progress Nagaland has achieved” under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, as reflected in the NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index 2023–24. The party noted that three districts from Nagaland have ranked among the top ten performing districts in the country.
In a press statement issued by its Press Bureau on Wednesday, the NPF said the achievement highlights the State Government’s “consistent commitment to inclusive growth, balanced regional development, and people-centric governance.” It added that the progress demonstrates “effective planning and coordination in improving key sectors such as education, healthcare, gender equality, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.”
The NPF recalled that Chief Minister Rio, during the 7th Meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog in New Delhi on August 7, 2022, had put forward “a series of visionary proposals” to accelerate the state’s development trajectory. These included six power projects such as the Tizu Valley Hydro-Electric Project, solar PV grids at Sub-Zhadima, a 132 kV transmission system along the Foothill Road, smart-meter installations in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Kohima, and last-mile rural electrification across Nagaland.
The statement further noted that Rio had also highlighted challenges unique to Nagaland, including land-holding systems that complicate digital agricultural reforms, and had requested special consideration for small revenue-deficit states. His proposals for an A320-capable airport to boost economic integration and model degree colleges in remote areas like Wakching and Mangkolemba were cited as examples of “forward-looking vision in connectivity and inclusive education.”
“Such foresight and planning are now bearing fruit, as evidenced by the State’s improved standing in the latest SDG Index.,” the NPF stated.
The party also took exception to an unnamed television channel that had earlier “exaggeratedly portrayed” Nagaland as one of the lowest-performing states based on outdated 2021–22 data. The party described the report, which carried a “sensational personal caption” reading ‘Is Neiphiu Rio the Worst CM?’ as “misleading and irresponsible.”
While reaffirming its respect for press freedom, the NPF maintained that “responsible journalism requires accuracy, fairness, and balance,” and warned that sensational reporting undermines media credibility and distorts public understanding.
“The party views such narratives as biased, counterproductive, and detrimental to healthy public discourse,” it added.
Concluding on a positive note, the NPF said that with the recent merger of the two regional parties and the people’s overwhelming support, Nagaland stands “united on a renewed path of development and political stability.” It added that the Northeast, and particularly the Nagas, with their distinct political legacy, remains “vital and indispensable in shaping a future of lasting peace, progress, and prosperity for all.”