A high-level review meeting on projects implemented under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and the North Eastern Council (NEC) was held today at the Chief Secretary’s Conference Hall, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Shri T.R. Zeliang.The meeting focused on assessing the progress of ongoing infrastructure and development projects and identifying the causes of long-standing delays.
In his opening remarks, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed concern over the large number of projects pending for over a decade. He stressed the importance of timely completion, especially as the current financial year marks the end of the 15th Finance Commission period. Any unutilized funds, he warned, could affect allocations under the upcoming 16th Finance Commission.A total of 26 distressed projects under schemes such as NESIDS (OTRI), NESIDS (Roads), and NEC were reviewed. For projects where funds were released but work remained incomplete, the Ministry has issued a clear directive: complete the project or initiate foreclosure with a full refund of funds.The meeting also addressed 16 legacy projects under the former NLCPR, now transitioned to NESIDS (OTRI), involving seven key departments: Law & Justice, Youth Resources & Sports, Industry & Commerce, PHED, PWD (R&B), School Education, and Health & Family Welfare. Some of these projects were sanctioned as early as 2003.Additionally, five incomplete road projects under NESIDS and NEC were discussed. Implementing departments committed to completing them within the newly revised timelines.Key reasons behind the delays were examined, and departments were advised to streamline processes. The Planning Department was directed to ensure timely and factual reporting to the Ministry to avoid further setbacks.The meeting concluded with a unified commitment to fast-track all ongoing projects, acknowledging their critical importance to Nagaland’s development and the well-being of its citizens.
