DIMAPUR, JUN 15 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio highlighted the state’s major infrastructure priorities and investment opportunities while addressing the North East India Infrastructure Summit & Exhibition 2026 in Shillong.
In a series of post on X, Rio said that although Nagaland is one of the oldest states in Northeast, its development trajectory has been constrained by geographical, historical and structural challenges, making infrastructure development critical for accelerating economic growth and improving service delivery.
Highlighting Nagaland’s unique landholding system, where most land remains community-owned and protected under Article 371A, Rio said these constitutional safeguards are vital but must be balanced with the need for land acquisition, infrastructure expansion and investment required for the state’s progress.
Rio showcased several transformative projects, including the proposed Ciethu Greenfield Airport for Kohima, the planned Nagaki City in Chümoukedima and the state’s proposal for establishment of an IIT.
Describing the Trans-Nagaland Highway (Foothill Road) as a game-changing project, Rio said the corridor would connect seven districts and more than 100 towns and villages, significantly enhancing connectivity and unlocking economic opportunities across the state.
He stressed that connectivity for Nagaland was not merely an infrastructure issue but a development imperative. According to him, the Foothill Road would improve access to agriculture, horticulture and mineral-rich regions while creating opportunities for industrial growth, logistics hubs, tourism development and private investment.
Rio also highlighted the significance of the recently signed tripartite Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of India, Assam and Nagaland for petroleum exploration and development activities. He noted that much of the prospective petroleum resource belt lies along the proposed Foothill Road corridor, making robust transport infrastructure essential for realising its full economic potential.
Inviting industry leaders and development partners to invest in Nagaland, Rio said the state was committed to building modern infrastructure and creating an enabling environment for sustainable growth as part of the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
Rio said the Northeast is entering a transformative phase of development under the Centre’s Act East Policy and stressed the need for stronger collaboration between governments and investors to unlock the region’s full potential.
Rio was accompanied by deputy chief minister TR Zeliang and other officials.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026