Kohima, November 28 (MExN): A state dinner and cultural show was hosted in honour of visit of the Chairman, member and officials of the 15th Finance Commission at the Banquet Hall, Office residence of the Chief Minister on November 27.
It was stated in a DIPR report that the Chairman of 15th FC Dr. N.K Singh, in his address mentioned that it was the duty of the Finance Commission to do whatever it could within the constraints of its constitution framework to contribute to the development of the state.
It stated that the Commission will join the distribution by the state government and will support the multiple endeavours in improving the quality of the infrastructure, both physical and social and will also further empower women and help in their contribution to the development of the state. “This Commission will assist the development of Nagaland and enable the government to realize what they believe is the destiny of the state,” he said.
The Commission will also mitigate the challenges, contribute to their efforts and will do their very best in encouraging the government for enabling Nagaland to reach its full potential and will take active participation in the endeavours of the present government.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio proposed the welcome speech. Regarding the long period of struggle and violence in the State by the unresolved issue of the Naga political struggle, he said that with almost 21 years of Peace Process and 3 years since signing of the Framework agreement, he was hopeful of a final settlement of the Naga Political Issue which is “inclusive, honourable and acceptable to the people fulfill their dreams and aspirations.”
To make tourism the mainstay of our economy, Rio said the state has launched the Mini Hornbill a tribal festivals in various districts at different times of the year which will culminate at Kisama in Kohima as the Hornbill Festival from December 1.
Rio also highlighted the aspirational and enthusiastic performances of the Naga youths who have excelled in Ranji trophy and the Indian Football League. He credited Temsutula Imsong for the cleaning the ghats of Varanasi, Chiewelou Thele, the best trainee commando of police officers at Delhi Police, the jawaans and officers of Naga Regiment for making the nation proud at Kargil War, Bangladesh War or fighting Naxals in difficult terrains, and the talented Naga boys and girls who have made the Nation proud with their accomplishments in the field of music, fashion and crafts.
Rio said the infrastructure development is helping Nagaland catch up with mainland States in terms of economic development with connectivity within the State as also with other States of the North East which helps to create opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses. He also said Nagaland is also the gateway to South East Asia and with the Act East policy of Government of India there will be a huge market for our produce and products. The ongoing road projects in the State and pursuing Ciethu airport at capital Kohima, can also transform the State, he informed.
“The strength of our State lies in our organic farm produce, flowers, fruits, and the rare medicinal plants and herbs can help create jobs and boost the economy,” the CM said. He also said Nagaland have a high literacy rate - higher than the national average and the young population is fluent in English, IT savvy and with a progressive outlook which can help transform the region into a hub for the services industry, Rio informed that a Call Centre is already operational in Kohima and is also pursuing for another call centre in Dimapur.
