State health & family welfare (H&FW) minister, S Pangnyu Phom, Thursday said that land issue has become one of the biggest hurdles for development in the State.
Speaking at the inaugural programme of newly upgraded Community Health Centre at Kezocha under Kohima district, Pangnyu said that even health sector had been badly crippled by land issue.
Health minister pointed out that over 100 land dispute cases were pending in courts, which, he said had become a headache even for the department.
Pangnyu said that the department had to fight land issues alone since village councils did not extend any protection in such cases.
Even though the prime minister and chief minister had given their full attention to the health sector, health minister expressed regret that the land owners, who were not willing to part with their land, have become a stumbling block to development.
Pangnyu, however, lauded Kezocha area for being exemplary in giving land for the upgradation without dispute from any quarter. He urged other village councils to emulate Kezocha area.
Disclosing that there were sanctions for upgradation of primary health centres in the State, the minister, however, the projects would be taken up only when land issues were cleared.
Also, speaking at the function, advisor Youth Resources and Sports, Er Zale Neikha, said that the much-needed upgradation was a huge achievement. He acknowledged the minister in-charge for ensuring successful completion of the project.
Zale expressed hope that the upgradation would benefit even the neighbouring villages from Chakhesang range besides Kezocha range.
Zale urged the people to make best use of the facilities, which were being provided at the CHC, and also extend cooperation to the department.
In his short speech, Minister PWD (Mechanical & Housing), Tongpang Ozukum, congratulated the range for the upgradation. He also urged them to trust in government healthcare facilities. Ozukum called upon the public to make the best use of the facilities provided to them.
In a brief remark, advisor horticulture and border affairs, Mhathung Yanthan, said the PDA government was committed to work for the welfare of the people.
On the occasion, principal director H&FW Dr. Neikhrielie Khimiao, DC Kohima Gregory Thejawhelie, and village elder Zasivoto Rote also gave short speeches.