DIMAPUR, JUL 16 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio called on several Union ministers in New Delhi on July 15 and 16, seeking support for the state’s infrastructure and development priorities, including national highways, inland waterways and financial assistance.
In a post on X, Rio said he met Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday and sought her consideration following the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants (RDGs), besides requesting support under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme for Nagaland’s developmental priorities. He expressed gratitude for her guidance and support.
Rio also met Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari along with deputy chief ministers T.R. Zeliang and Y. Patton. He said the delegation sought support for Nagaland’s national highway priorities, including pending projects, declaration of the Foothill Road and strategic corridors as National Highways, and improved connectivity.
In a separate post, Gadkari said the meeting reviewed the progress of ongoing National Highway projects in Nagaland and emphasised their timely completion to strengthen connectivity and ensure faster, safer and hassle-free travel across the state.
On July 15, Rio, accompanied by deputy chief minister Y. Patton, also met Union minister for ports, shipping and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal to discuss the development of inland waterways, improved connectivity and new avenues for economic growth in Nagaland. Sonowal, in a post on X, said the discussions focused on strengthening inland waterways and allied Inland Water Transport (IWT) infrastructure in Nagaland to create new opportunities for connectivity, commerce and regional prosperity.
He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India remained committed to the holistic development of the Ashtalakshmi states through world-class infrastructure and inclusive growth.
