Key proposals, initiatives reviewed at DPDB meetings

District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) meeting for April 7 was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Conference Hall, Zunheboto, chaired by Vice Chairperson and DC Dharam Raj.
In his address, the DC informed members that this would be his last meeting as DC and vice chairperson of Zunheboto, following his transfer to Tuensang. He reviewed previous agendas, including registration of societies under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
The proposal for Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (SBAK) Aizuto was approved and forwarded, while discussions on establishing a new Sub-District Industries and Commerce Centre (SIDC) at Suruhuto were also held. GM, DIC Zunheboto, Er N. Toky Chishi, stressed the need for proper consultation, feasibility studies, and manpower planning before placing proposals before the board.
The DC emphasized adherence to proper procedures in submitting proposals and appreciated the initiatives of the District Forest Office, particularly the “1st Satoi Connect: Connecting Forest, Community & Conservation” eco-tourism programme organized by Zunheboto Forest Division from March 26–28, 2026.
Divisional Forest Officer Obed Bohovi Swu highlighted that the initiative, launched during Wildlife Week in October 2025, aimed to promote livelihoods through biodiversity conservation. He noted the uniqueness of the Satoi range and acknowledged support from local MLA and Minister for Roads and Bridges, G. Kaito Aye. Plans are underway to make the event an annual feature. Swu also introduced Community Social Responsibility (ComSR), encouraging collective responsibility for social welfare, conservation, and infrastructure development.
Reflecting on his tenure, the DC mentioned initiatives such as adoption of a Model Village and an internship programme for college students. Zunheboto Government College Principal, Dr. R. Bendangtemjen, noted that departmental participation in the internship programme had grown from 4–5 in 2025 to over 12 at present. Education-related matters were also reviewed, with emphasis on improving awareness of student facilities, including hostels, and ensuring proper advertisement through print media. The DC further stressed strengthening basic infrastructure and institutional functioning. The District Education Office presented a PowerPoint highlighting ongoing programmes and areas for improvement.
Tuensang: District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) Tuensang held its monthly meeting at the DC’s Conference Hall under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner and vice chairperson, Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa.
The board reviewed minutes of the previous meeting and recommended Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) water connection for the DEF office and staff quarters. SDPO DEF Tuensang, Dr. Akash Sinha, highlighted challenges in tackling drug movements due to the district’s proximity to the Myanmar Golden Triangle. He stressed that many drug users are students and urged stakeholders—including Education, Social Welfare, Medical, and the Church—to treat youths as victims rather than accused individuals. District Welfare Officer T. Longlang Luckpan presented a detailed report on the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), covering IGNOAPS, IGNWPS, IGNDPS, and state schemes for the blind and scholarships for persons with disabilities. He highlighted challenges such as difficulties in opening Aadhaar and bank accounts, and informed about assignment camps held for senior citizens and differently abled persons.
DC urged departments to conduct regular cleanliness drives in office premises and to actively participate in pre-monsoon social work.