Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio revealed on Tuesday that the state has recorded the highest urban population growth rate in India, with a staggering 66.7% increase.
He said this while addressing the inauguration of the upgraded Dimapur Town Hall (DTH) in the Naga Shopping Arcade area while also emphasising the critical need to address challenges arising from rapid urbanization.
According to the 2011 Census, 28.86% of Nagaland’s population now resides in urban areas, marking a significant demographic shift. The newly renovated Dimapur Town Hall, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs.17.37 crore, symbolizes the state’s commitment to urban development and infrastructure modernization.
In his speech, Rio stressed the global trend of urbanization, citing World Bank studies that project 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050. He highlighted India’s rapid urbanization trajectory, predicting that by mid-century, 60% of the country’s population will reside in urban centres, surpassing rural populations. For Nagaland, Rio noted, the significant rural-to-urban migration underscores the urgency of urban development and the modernization of existing infrastructure.
“Urban centres are the engines of economic growth,” Rio stated, pointing to Dimapur’s pivotal role as one of the oldest urban hubs in the state. He described the city as a transportation lifeline, connecting Nagaland with neighbouring states via railways, roadways, and airways. He emphasized that Dimapur’s infrastructure is not only vital for its residents but also serves the needs of the entire state.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Rio said, “We must invest in resilient infrastructure today for a better tomorrow.” He assured the audience that the Nagaland government remains committed to building sustainable infrastructure that meets modern standards and long-term community needs.
Rio acknowledged that land scarcity in urban areas poses a significant challenge. With limited room for expansion, the focus has shifted towards vertical development, upgrading existing infrastructure, and reimagining older spaces to accommodate growing urban demands. The newly revamped Dimapur Town Hall, which lay neglected for years, now stands as an example of successful infrastructure renewal.
The earlier hall, constructed approximately 24 years ago, had fallen into disrepair due to neglect. After consultations with experts, the decision was made to upgrade and renovate the facility. The revamped structure now features modern amenities, including state-of-the-art sound systems, lighting, and electrification, elevating it to national and international standards.
“I am delighted that quality control has been maintained, and this infrastructure can now serve multiple purposes, such as community events, private gatherings, church programs, and concerts,” Rio said. He encouraged citizens to take responsibility for maintaining the renovated facility, underscoring its role in fostering community relationships and gatherings.
Reflecting on Dimapur Town Hall’s history, Rio said its foundation was laid in 1986, with the project finally becoming operational in 2008 after significant delays. However, he expressed regret over its subsequent mismanagement and misuse, which led to its deterioration.
To ensure better maintenance, Rio proposed forming a management committee under the Development Authority of Nagaland (DAN). The committee would include representatives from the administration, municipal council, and civil society, with the possibility of introducing a nominal fee to ensure long-term upkeep of the facility.
Rio praised stakeholders involved in the renovation project, including the Urban Development Department, DAN, contractors, and other agencies. He further acknowledged the successful conduct of Urban Local Body (ULB) elections in 25 urban centres across the state, calling it a milestone for empowering urban areas through elected representatives capable of addressing local development needs.
Adviser for Tribal Affairs and Elections H Tovihoto Ayemi, who was the honoured guest, hailed the renovated Dimapur Town Hall as a momentous achievement and the beginning of a new chapter for Dimapur’s development. He commended Chief Minister Rio for his leadership and commitment to improving public infrastructure. Ayemi urged citizens to treat the hall as “one’s own property” and take collective responsibility for its maintenance.
DAN Superintending Engineer Mhonlumo Ngullie provided financial details, stating that Rs.17.37 crore was allocated for the project, with Rs.2 crore contributed by the state government and Rs.15.73 crore sourced from the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment. Out of the total, Rs.16.91 crore has already been released to the contractor.
The event began with an invocation by Nukmen Baptist Church Pastor Kilang Longkumer, a keynote address by DAN Chairman Dr. Watizulu Süzümeren, and a vote of thanks delivered by Deputy Commissioner Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang. The occasion was further enriched by a cultural performance from the Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA),