Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Social Justice & Empowerment BL Verma on a two-day visit to Nagaland reviewed major infrastructure projects and the implementation of Centrally Sponsored welfare schemes in Chümoukedima district, underscoring the Centre’s focus on accelerating development in the Northeast.
On January 21, the Minister inspected the construction of the Unity Mall at Chümoukedima, where he stressed adherence to quality standards and timely completion of works.
He also visited the Anganwadi Centre at Diphupar, the Centre for Disease Control, and the Cancer Treatment Centre at the Referral Hospital, Chümoukedima, to assess infrastructure, manpower availability and service delivery.
Verma further inspected a Fair Price Shop in Chümoukedima and interacted with beneficiaries and officials, reiterating the Central Government’s commitment to strengthening the public distribution system through transparency and accountability.
Later, the Minister chaired a review meeting on the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes at the Deputy Commissioner’s office, where he reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to the development of the Northeastern region. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of the Northeast as “Ashta Lakshmi”, Verma said the region holds a critical place in the country’s economic growth.
Highlighting improvements in road, rail and air connectivity, he said enhanced connectivity has reduced isolation and opened new opportunities for trade, tourism and employment. Expressing satisfaction over the implementation of flagship initiatives such as PM-DevINE and programmes under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), he directed officials to strictly follow guidelines to ensure benefits reach eligible beneficiaries in a time-bound manner.
Appreciating the district administration led by Deputy Commissioner Polan John, Verma called for coordinated efforts to develop the newly created Chümoukedima district into a model of good governance. He also directed departments to expedite delayed construction works and ensure efficient utilisation of central and state funds.
On January 22, the Union Minister visited the oil palm plantation site at Chümoukedima Village, where he reviewed progress under the National Edible Oil–Oil Palm initiative. Interacting with farmers and officials, he stressed the role of oil palm cultivation in enhancing farmers’ income, promoting self-reliance in edible oil production and strengthening the rural economy.
Verma also inspected the Health and Wellness Centre at Diphupar B, where he interacted with healthcare workers and reviewed services being provided, reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
Addressing the media, the Minister said the Centre remains committed to improving infrastructure and public service delivery in Nagaland, stressing that regular monitoring, transparency and people-centric governance are key to achieving inclusive development. He added that empowering the Northeast remains central to the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India.
