Mineral development must uphold Article 371A: Chingang

Dimapur, Aug 7 (NPN): Advisor for Geology & Mining and DUDA, W. Chingang Konyak, emphasised the significance of Article 371A, stating that mineral development in the state must be rooted in constitutional safeguards and carried out with confidence and participation of local communities.
“Our objective must be responsible development-one that creates wealth without degrading the environment or undermining community rights,” he asserted.
He was speaking at the 46th State Geological Programming Board (SGPB) meeting of the Department of Geology & Mining (DGM) held at Hotel Saramati on Friday. Chingang said the Board should serve not merely as a review forum but as a platform where science, policy and developmental aspirations converge.
Highlighting Nagaland’s rich deposits of coal, limestone, petroleum, natural gas and other minerals, he stressed that the true value of these resources lies in how effectively they are utilised to improve people’s lives. He asserted that mineral wealth must contribute to employment generation, infrastructure development, industrial growth and economic self reliance, while ensuring sustainability. He underscored that natural resources are a shared inheritance and must be managed with scientific knowledge, environmental responsibility, transparency and respect for community rights.
Calling for stronger collaboration, the advisor urged Geological Survey of India, technical institutions and DGM to avoid duplication and focus on priority areas with economic potential. He stressed that geological investigations should lead to tangible outcomes such as identified mineral blocks, investment opportunities, value addition and employment.
He further advocated promotion of mineral based industries within the state to reduce dependence on export of raw materials and maximise economic benefits. Chingang reaffirmed government’s commitment to a transparent and sustainable mineral sector, while cautioning against unscientific and unsafe mining practices that cause environmental degradation and revenue loss. He called for a practical, time bound roadmap for exploration and development with clear targets and monitoring mechanisms.
Meanwhile, delivering the keynote address, Commissioner and Secretary, DGM, John Kevi Angami, who also chaired the programme, emphasised that the SGPB meeting should not be treated as a routine exercise but as a platform to review departmental performance and identify future priorities. He called for continuous upgradation of departmental work and greater contribution from young scientific officers.
Angami noted that the department has wider scope of activities compared to other states and stressed the need for judicious distribution of work and innovative approaches. He also highlighted the importance of addressing landslides and geo hazards, and focusing on critical minerals for future development. Seeking cooperation from all stakeholders, he encouraged participants to contribute ideas during the technical sessions for strengthening the department and advancing the state’s mineral sector.
Earlier, director, DGM, Newmai Asingbow, delivered the welcome address. In the technical session, agendas such as confirmation of the 45th SGPB meeting, appraisal of work done by various agencies/departments, appraisal of work done by DGM Nagaland, and approval of field season programme 2027–2028 were discussed.