The foundation stone laying programme for the new Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex in Dimapur was held on 2nd April 2026 at DC office Complex, Dimapur, with senior government officials, advisors, civil society representatives, and members of the public in attendance.
The event marked an important milestone in the development of district administrative infrastructure and is expected to significantly improve public service delivery in Dimapur.
Advisor for CAWD & Taxes, Kudecho Khamo, in his address as a special guest conveyed greetings on behalf of the Chief Minister and other dignitaries who were unable to attend due to prior engagements. He expressed gratitude to the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, stating that the long-cherished dream of constructing a modern DC complex has finally become a reality.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening governance and public service delivery, he said that several administrative buildings, including DC complexes, additional DC offices, and staff quarters, are being constructed across the state. Emphasizing collective responsibility, he stated that while the government creates infrastructure, it is equally the duty of the public to protect and maintain these assets. He called upon civil society organisations and citizens to actively participate in the development process and work together for the welfare of the state.
Referring to Dimapur as the commercial hub and a “mini-India,” he noted that people from diverse communities coexist in the town. He said Dimapur plays a crucial role as the gateway to the state and stressed the importance of unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all sections of society. He encouraged constructive criticism along with active participation from all sections of society. Calling for harmony and peaceful coexistence, he appealed to the people to uphold the values of honesty, hospitality, and simplicity while preserving their identity, culture, and faith. He concluded by urging everyone to work together for a peaceful and progressive society, stating that collective effort is the key to achieving lasting development and happiness.
Advisor, Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, in her address called for collective responsibility, unity, and active public support during the foundation stone laying programme of the new district administrative complex. She stated that the project holds special significance for the Chief Minister as it aligns with his vision of strengthening district administration across Nagaland. Highlighting the importance of the date, she noted that April 2nd marks the 50th anniversary of the upgradation of the NDC headquarters in 1976, making the occasion historically significant.
Emphasizing the role of district administration, she described Dimapur as the “heartbeat of Nagaland” and a major hub for economic and commercial activities. She said the government’s responsibility is to create an enabling ecosystem, while the public and business community must actively contribute towards economic growth and development.
Jakhalu further stressed that the new building belongs to the people and called for collective responsibility to ensure its timely completion. She urged departments, contractors, and citizens to work together in making the project a model for other districts in the state. Reiterating the Chief Minister’s principle that “rights and duties must go hand in hand,” she called upon citizens to reflect on their responsibilities before demanding their rights and urged the people of Dimapur to remain committed to their duties and extend full support to the district administration in making the district one of the best-performing district in the state.
Advisor for Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer, in his address stated that the people of Dimapur are grateful for the long-awaited development opportunity after 52 years and thanked the State Government for sanctioning the project.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the people of Dimapur to Dr. Neiphiu Rio for granting the project, and also acknowledged the Department of CAWD, along with the Advisor, Commissioner and Additional Chief Engineer, for their efforts.
Describing the project as more than just a new building, Moatoshi said the complex is expected to reflect efficiency, accountability and empathy in public service, while improving governance through better infrastructure, technology and accessibility. He appealed to the contractors and engineers to complete the project on time while maintaining quality standards, warning that delays and cost escalation would inconvenience the public, especially with the office expected to shift temporarily to Purana Bazar.
Commissioner of Nagaland, Gregory Thejawalie, IAS, in his welcome address said the new complex would become the nerve centre of governance in Dimapur, reflecting the district’s rapid growth and modernization.
Recalling the history of the district administration, he said Dimapur initially functioned as a subdivision under Kohima district from a humble treasury office building. The first dedicated office building was inaugurated in 1974 by the then Chief Minister of Nagaland, Late Vizol.
He noted that April 2nd marks nearly 50 years since the first building was constructed, making the day significant as the foundation stone for its reconstruction was also laid on the same date.
He further highlighted that Dimapur was officially upgraded as the eighth district of Nagaland on December 2, 1997, formally establishing the office of the Deputy Commissioner as the head of the district administration. Describing the new complex as more than just a building, he said it would provide modern, efficient, transparent, and accessible services to citizens, while symbolising the district’s collective aspirations and progress.
Synopsis of New DC's office complex Dimapur was presented by Asst. Chief Engineer (CAWD), Office of the Commissioner, Kohima, Er. Sungtiba Amer, where he highlighted that the project involves the construction of a modern G+2 office complex along with essential supporting infrastructure, including water supply and sanitation facilities, sentry and exit gates, compound fencing, approach road, compound flooring, flag hoist stage, walking pavement with concrete pavers, canteen, barrack, and two gazebo units.
He informed that the work has been awarded to M/s C.K Enterprise at a total cost of Rs 14,96,68,000. The complex has been designed and estimated by the Chief Architect, PWD (Planning & Design), while the Assistant Chief Engineer, CAWD, will serve as the executing agency. The work order period has been fixed at 24 months with effect from November 7, 2025. However, he stated that the dismantling of the existing old DC office building is expected to take three to six months, and actual construction will commence only after the dismantling process is completed. As a result, the completion timeline may extend beyond the stipulated period.
The proposed office complex will have a total plinth area of 29,909 square feet and is expected to provide a modern, well-equipped office space for the district administration upon completion.
As per the floor plan, the ground floor will house the Aadhar Cell, ILP Cell, Post Office, ATM, Judicial Branch, Revenue Branch, DLRSO, DDMA, DHEW, Planning Department, and a Meeting Hall, ensuring easy public access to essential services.
The first floor will accommodate the Deputy Commissioner’s room with a mini conference hall, ADC room, EAC room, General Establishment section, and the Account Branch.
The second floor has been designated for CAWD, an additional EAC room, Conference Room, Election Branch, and the NIC office along with a dedicated Video Conference Room, aimed at facilitating digital governance and official meetings.
To ensure convenience and accessibility, separate toilets for both gents and ladies have been provided on all floors. The building will also feature modern amenities such as a lift and ramp from the ground floor, making it accessible to all visitors, including persons with disabilities.
The planned infrastructure reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing administrative efficiency and delivering improved public services to the people of Dimapur.
The programme also included a speech on behalf of civil society organisations by the President, Naga Council Dimapur, GK Rengma, and vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur.
(Tovikali, IA, Dimapur)
