Chief MinisterNeiphiu Rio on Thursday mounted a coordinated push for greater Central support for Nagaland’s development, seeking financial assistance, improved road connectivity and the development of inland waterways during separate meetings with senior Union ministers in New Delhi.
In his meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Rio sought her consideration following the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants (RDGs) and requested support under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme for the state’s developmental priorities.
The meeting assumes significance in the wake of the 16th Finance Commission’s decision to discontinue RDGs for the 2026–31 award period. The decision is expected to impact Nagaland’s finances, making the state government to seek alternative avenues of Central support for development and capital investment.
Rio also met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers TR Zeliang and Yanthungo Patton, to press for Nagaland’s National Highway priorities. The delegation sought the Centre’s support for the declaration of the Foothill Road and other strategic corridors as National Highways, clearance of pending highway projects and measures to strengthen road connectivity across the state.
The Foothill Road has remained one of Nagaland’s key infrastructure priorities, with the proposed corridor expected to improve inter-district connectivity and facilitate economic activity by providing an alternative route through the foothills.
Following the meeting, Gadkari said discussions reviewed the progress of ongoing National Highway projects in Nagaland and emphasised their timely completion to ensure faster, safer and more efficient travel across the state.
Rio also called on Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, along with Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, to discuss opportunities for developing inland waterways and allied transport infrastructure in Nagaland. The discussions focused on improving connectivity and creating new avenues for commerce and economic development.