The Zeme Baptist Church Council (ZBCC) officially inaugurated its Baptist School at Ngwalwa, Peren on Saturday, with Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang gracing the occasion as the chief guest.
In his address, Zeliang congratulated ZBCC for its achievement in establishing a much-needed educational institution in Ngwalwa. He emphasized the strategic location of Northern Zeme area headquarters at Ngwalwa, highlighting its proximity to the nearest railway head, the present airport, and the proposed international airport.
Recalling past development proposals, he noted, “In the past, we had proposed for Smart City to come up in Jornapani and Sainik School area, but some sections of people opposed the proposal, and Smart City was established in Capital City, Kohima.”
Zeliang also shared the State Government’s vision to develop Nagaki (Green City) as part of a Model Township initiative. He mentioned that land acquisition efforts for the project were already underway. “We can visualize that this vision of a Model Town will be translated into a reality because there will be no problem with water supply, power supply, and road/railway connectivity,” he said.
He further disclosed that the state government had previously proposed an international airport at Rüzaphema, and the Airport Authority of India (AAI) had conducted feasibility surveys, with a positive report being submitted and approved.
“This vision may also become a reality once Nagaki City comes up. In such a case, we will be part of the Smart City in a better way,” he remarked.
Expressing gratitude for the initiative to establish the Baptist School, Zeliang congratulated the ZBCC leadership for their visionary step. He urged Ngwalwa and its neighboring villages to support the school’s growth, expressing hope that it would cater to the educational needs of present and future generations.
The Deputy Chief Minister also announced several upcoming road development projects in the Northern Zeme area, particularly around Ngwalwa. These include: NH 29 – Jalukie via Jornapani-Ngwalwa; NH 129A – Maram-Peren-Dimapur via Ngwalwa; Foothill Road passing through Kukidolong-Ngwalwa Town-Jalukie-Khelma; and a new railway line from Dimapur to Kohima, with a substation near Punglwa Sainik School.
Highlighting the impact of these infrastructural developments, Zeliang stated that they would transform the Northern Zeme area. He outlined various benefits, including improved connectivity to Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Kohima, and other villages, enhanced economic opportunities, increased access to essential services, better healthcare and education facilities, and increased property values.
“The presence of National Highway 129A will significantly improve the quality of life for villagers, providing them with better access to opportunities, services, and amenities,” he asserted.
Zeliang concluded by emphasizing that these developments would not only boost economic activities but also enhance emergency services such as ambulance, fire brigade, and police response, thereby ensuring overall progress in the region.
The program was led by ZBCC Education Secretary Dr Rangro Herie. ZBCC Executive Secretary Dr Rampaukopoing Michui delivered the welcome address, while the convener of the building construction committee, Kiepeube Ziehuny also delivered a short speech.