Kohima, November 10 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio on Monday called for greater cooperation among the North Eastern states to strengthen democratic institutions, accelerate infrastructure development, and promote inclusive growth.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the 22nd Annual Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-III Conference in Kohima, Rio highlighted the role of the North Eastern Regional Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (NERCPA), established in 1996, in fostering mutual learning and policy collaboration among the eight states of the region.
He praised the CPA India Region Zone–III for advancing parliamentary best practices and addressing region-specific concerns, stating that the platform continues to strengthen regional unity and democratic governance.
Rio underscored the importance of including the North East in the India–ASEAN Vision for Trade and Cooperation, stressing the need for improved connectivity, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges to enhance people-to-people ties across borders.
On Nagaland’s development, the Chief Minister expressed concern that despite being rich in mineral resources, the State remains resource-constrained due to limited exploration and inadequate infrastructure. He renewed his appeal to the Central Government to expedite the establishment of an Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) and to upgrade the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research into an AIIMS-like institute to boost higher education and healthcare.
He also urged the Centre to give priority to the proposed Dimapur–Tizit railway line and reconsider the Ciethu Airport project in Kohima, describing both as critical for improving connectivity and stimulating economic growth.
Rio lamented that Nagaland still lacks premier institutions such as an IIT or National Law University, which he said are essential for nurturing talent and innovation within the State. He further noted that the re-imposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) has deterred investments, calling for measures to address such structural challenges that limit economic opportunities.
He expressed confidence that the deliberations during the two-day conference would deepen regional cooperation, strengthen democratic institutions, and contribute to the collective progress of the North Eastern states.
Caption: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio addressing the inaugural session of the 22nd Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-III Conference in Kohima on November 10.
