Advisor Zhaleo Rio chairs the Chümoukedima DPDB meeting at the Deputy Commissioner's Conference Hall on July 10. (DIPR Photo)
Dimapur, July 10 (MExN): The Chümoukedima District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) on July 10 reviewed a range of development proposals, approved society registrations and Local Area Development Programme (LADP) proposals for 2026–27, while also deliberating on solid waste management, census progress and infrastructure needs in the district.
The monthly DPDB meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner's Conference Hall under the chairmanship of Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs and DPDB Chairman, Zhaleo Rio. Advisor for Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, also attended the meeting.
Addressing the members, Rio said that as more government offices are established in Chümoukedima district, officers should discharge their responsibilities with dedication and sincerity. He urged them to serve "with a sense of purpose and commitment" rather than viewing their duties merely as employment.
Jakhalu said each DPDB meeting provides an opportunity to reflect on the performance of "Team Chümoukedima" and chart a shared path for the district's development. Referring to the financial constraints faced by the State and challenges in revenue generation, she stressed the need for collective efforts to strengthen the local economy. Citing the vision of *Viksit Bharat 2047*, she said the groundwork must begin now by supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and local businesses so that development initiatives directly benefit the people.
The board scrutinised applications for society registration and approved recommendations for Pro Village, Molvom Village, and Odia Samaj Nagaland, 4th Mile, Diphupar. It also approved the district's LADP proposals for 2026–27.
On the proposal to establish a District Industries Centre (DIC) in Chümoukedima, the board noted that the matter is under consideration at the government level. While agreeing in principle, it observed that the establishment would be carried out following due government procedures.
The board also discussed a representation submitted by the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) seeking reconstruction of the suspension bridge at Chümoukedima Saturday Bazaar, which was damaged during the monsoon floods, along with the construction of a foot overbridge at the same location. The house recommended taking up the matter with the State PWD and noted that Rs 4 lakh had earlier been provided by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) for restoration works.
Presenting an update on the ongoing Census exercise, Additional Deputy Commissioner T Lemlila Sangtam said around 25% of the district has been covered so far. She informed the board that five Charge Officers are overseeing the exercise and expressed confidence that the census would be completed within the stipulated timeline.
Scientist 'B' of the Nagaland Pollution Control Board, Yanathung Kithan, delivered a presentation on solid waste management, highlighting the importance of scientific segregation, collection and disposal of waste.
Speaking on the issue, Rio stressed that every citizen should become "an agent of change" by complying with the Solid Waste Management Rules. He called for close coordination between the district administration, Chümoukedima Town Council and the public to ensure effective waste management, emphasising strict waste segregation and greater public awareness on proper disposal practices. He added that Chümoukedima should strive to become a model district in waste management.
The board also decided that the Urban Development Department will make a PowerPoint presentation during the next DPDB meeting.
