MP flags delay in NH-29, seeks revival of solar schemes

Nagaland Lok Sabha MP S. Supongmeren Jamir has written separate letters to Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia and Pralhad Joshi highlighting serious developmental challenges in Nagaland and the North East region—ranging from delayed highway works to the urgent need for renewed thrust in renewable energy adoption.
In his representation to Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia, Jamir raised concern over the inordinate delay in completing the four-laning of the Dimapur-Kohima National Highway (NH-29)—a crucial capital connectivity project. He noted that despite multiple extensions, the project’s revised completion date—September 28, 2025—was unlikely to be met, unless a high-powered committee from the Centre conducted on-site verification and review.
Supongmeren also flagged poor mobile connectivity in many North East villages, particularly in Nagaland.
While official reports claim 100% coverage under telecom projects, the MP pointed out that “ground realities tell a different story.” Many villages have either non-functional towers or incomplete network line connections. He further requested intervention to secure BSNL properties—such as office buildings and staff quarters—which, he said, remained unprotected and in poor condition.
On the energy front, Jamir expressed concern over the sudden discontinuation of the Off-Grid Solar Programme, which previously supported the installation of solar streetlights, home lighting systems, and power packs. He urged the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to resume the programme to help rural communities transition to clean energy.
In his separate memorandum to Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi, the MP focused exclusively on the renewable energy sector. He outlined structural challenges and called for tailored central schemes to suit the unique terrain and logistical limitations of Nagaland and the North East.
While noting the hydropower potential of the region, Jamir said the absence of a dedicated central funding scheme had kept such projects from taking off. He suggested the creation of a Hydropower Development Scheme, especially for smaller and regionally viable projects in hilly states.
On solar energy, he said generic national schemes fail to match the on-ground realities of the North East. He strongly urged for the revival of the Off-Grid Solar Programme, stating that the initiative had started to gain community-level acceptance before it was halted.
Jamir also called attention to the untapped wind energy potential in Nagaland. He recommended the introduction of Small Wind Turbine (SWT) schemes designed specifically for hilly terrains and micro-wind systems for remote, standalone or hybrid installations.
Citing deficient transmission infrastructure as a major barrier, he called for the creation of a dedicated Green Energy Corridor for the North East, with central support to build evacuation lines for renewable energy projects.
To attract private sector investment, Jamir proposed capital subsidies, GST waivers, tax holidays, and special category incentives for the North East, saying such measures would “level the playing field” and boost investor confidence in renewable energy ventures.
In conclusion, Jamir said Nagaland was taking key steps toward sustainability, but sustained policy and financial support from the Centre was critical for energy security and inclusive development in the region. He stressed that tailored programmes and targeted investment could help Nagaland contribute meaningfully to the national vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.