TR Zeliang inaugurates NIoT office

Deputy chief minister for Planning & Transformation and National Highways, T.R. Zeliang, inaugurated the office building of the Nagaland Institute of Transformation (NIoT) at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima, on March 13.
According to DIPR, speaking at the launch, Zeliang said the establishment of NIoT marks a significant milestone in strengthening institutional capacity for strategic planning, policy innovation and development monitoring in the state. He described NIoT as a think tank and knowledge hub envisioned to support evidence-based policymaking, monitor key programmes and align Nagaland’s priorities with national development goals.
He emphasized that in a rapidly evolving development landscape, governments must rely on robust data systems, research-driven policies and coordinated action to ensure effective governance. Institutions like NIoT, he said, will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s future trajectory, particularly as the country works towards the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Commending the Planning & Transformation Department and stakeholders involved, Zeliang expressed confidence that NIoT would contribute significantly towards inclusive and sustainable development in Nagaland.
UNDP Regional Head, NER, John Borgoyary, in his remarks, stressed the importance of long-term planning and effective implementation of vision documents. He highlighted ongoing work on Nagaland’s development roadmap towards 2047 and urged consistent reference to vision documents to achieve intended goals. He encouraged NIoT members to collaborate in refining the state’s vision documents to advance inclusive growth.
Development Commissioner, Temsunaro Aier, emphasized the importance of stakeholder consultations in preparing the Vision 2047 document. She informed that consultations would be held across districts, involving officers and community representatives, and urged Deputy Commissioners to cooperate by sharing relevant data and insights.
Established in January 2026 under the Department of Planning & Transformation, NIoT is supported by NITI Aayog under its State Support Mission (SSM). The institute aims to design and drive development strategies by leveraging expertise from knowledge institutions, development partners, multilateral agencies, civil society organisations and academia. It also seeks to strengthen monitoring and evaluation systems and enhance data analytics for evidence-based planning and governance.