DIMAPUR: District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) meetings for July were held in Chümoukedima and Wokha on July 10, where members deliberated on pressing developmental concerns, reviewed ongoing programmes and undertook institutional visits to institutions of public importance.
In Chümoukedima, the meeting was chaired by advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs & DPDB chairman, Zhaleo Rio, with advisor for Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu also present. Addressing the members, Zhaleo urged officers to discharge their responsibilities with sincerity and dedication, stressing that duties should be carried out with a sense of purpose rather than viewed merely as employment.
Hekani, in her remarks, said DPDB meetings provide an opportunity to reflect on the performance of “Team Chümoukedima” and to chart a shared vision for the district. She emphasised the need to strengthen the local economy despite financial constraints, highlighting support for MSMEs and local enterprises as groundwork for Viksit Bharat 2047. The board approved society registrations for Pro Village, Molvom village, and Odia Samaj Nagaland, 4th Mile, Diphupar, and also cleared LADP proposals for 2026–2027. On the proposal for a District Industries Centre (DIC), the board agreed in principle, noting that the matter was under consideration at the government level.
Deliberating on a representation from the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) regarding reconstruction of the suspension bridge at Chümoukedima Saturday Bazaar, damaged during monsoon floods, and construction of a foot overbridge at the same site, the house recommended the matter be taken up with the State PWD. It noted that Rs. 4 lakh had earlier been sanctioned by the DDMA for restoration works.
ADC T. Lemlila Sangtam presented a report on the ongoing Census exercise, informing that 25 per cent coverage had been achieved so far with five Charge Officers overseeing the process.
During the meeting, Yanathung Kithan, Scientist ‘B’, NPCB, delivered a presentation on Solid Waste Management, stressing scientific segregation, collection and disposal. Zhaleo called for strict compliance with waste segregation rules and urged coordination between the district administration, Chümoukedima Town Council and the public to make Chümoukedima a model district in waste management. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from the chair.
In Wokha, the DPDB meeting was chaired by advisor and DPDB chairman Mhathung Yanthan, with Mhonbemo Humtsoe MLA and DC Wokha K. Mhathung Tsanglao co chairing. The board reviewed issues including the drying up of Etsutchukha water source pond, need for NST bus services, and maintenance of National Highway 2, with engineers informing that contractors have been given 15 days to repair potholes. Land encroachment along the highway was also deliberated.
Chichamo Shitiri of the Nagaland Nutrition Mission Foundation raised concerns on waste management at the Doyang Hydro Reservoir, highlighting accumulation of non biodegradable debris and discarded fishing equipment. He proposed the establishment of a recycling unit and awareness programmes among farmers to prevent further pollution.
Three departments presented detailed reports. SDPO Wokha Sangthing Khiam spoke on the Police Department, highlighting crime trends, establishment of a cyber cell in 2023, and helplines for reporting crimes. Shortages of police personnel, particularly women officers, were noted. Dr. Oben Yanthan presented for the Prison Department, outlining rehabilitation programmes and counselling initiatives, with Wokha noted as the first district to provide counselling and therapy to prisoners. Assistant Labour Commissioner Neimenuo presented on the Labour Department, highlighting NBOCWWB statistics: 1,788 registrations, of which 763 were active and 988 inactive, eight death claims, 630 scholarships (2025-2026), five maternity benefits, two medical benefits and 768 tools grants. She also spoke on ESIC and EPFO, citing challenges in coverage and proposing awareness cum registration drives.
Administrative officers and border magistrates highlighted issues including census operations. As part of institutional visits, DPDB members toured the District De Addiction Centre (DDAC), Wokha, at Chukitong Town. Advisor Yanthan encouraged patients to remain determined, stressing rebuilding lives and positivity. Humtsoe and DC Wokha assured support.
The members also visited Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Wokha, at Chukitong, where poor road connectivity and low student enrollment were flagged. Against a capacity of 540, only 297 students are enrolled, which was termed a significant loss to the community.