Kiphire, April 15 (MExN): Innovation in programme implementation, stronger outreach by Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and the need for structured annual planning were key recommendations from senior officials of the Union Ministry of MSME and NITI Aayog during a review of ongoing initiatives in Kiphire district under the Aspirational District Programme.
Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), and Prarthana Pawale, Central Prabhari Officer for the Aspirational District and Block Programme, NITI Aayog, undertook the review during a three-day visit to the district from April 13 to 15.
A consultative meeting held on April 14 at the DPDB Hall, Kiphire, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Temsuwati Longkumer, reviewed innovation projects under NITI Aayog and the culmination of Sampoornata Abhiyan 2.0, with participation from line departments.
During the interaction, Epao reviewed departmental activities and urged Heads of Departments to adopt more innovative approaches while ensuring clarity in roles and responsibilities. She directed district officials to prepare an annual development plan to improve overall performance and submit it to the Deputy Commissioner for necessary action.
Interacting with SHG members, the MSME Joint Secretary also encouraged them to organise exhibitions outside the district to showcase agricultural produce and other local products, and advised them to apply for relevant government schemes, assuring funding support.
As per the State DIPR, the team was received earlier by the district administration and heads of offices at the Helipad, Kiphire, on April 13. As part of the visit, they inspected and monitored programmes under the Aspirational District initiative and visited key villages, including Amahator, Thethuyo, and Phelunger.
