Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, held a press briefing at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Secretariat, Kohima after presenting the Budget for 2025-2026 during the sixth session of the 14th Assembly on March 6, 2025. He termed it the "Budget of New Initiatives."
Dr. Rio highlighted the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) and the Chief Minister’s Life Insurance Scheme (CMLIS), which are available not only for government employees and their families but also for elected members, pensioners, and members of the press.
He also spoke about the Nagaland Skill Mission, which aims to provide employment to 5,000 youths in the current financial year. Also, the Nagaland Tourism, Hospitality and Transport Scheme will facilitate concessional loans for 200 vehicles and 500 homestays across different districts based on tourist demand to boost tourism and support local entrepreneur.
On the Konyak Heritage Village project in Mon district, Dr. Rio shared that, with assistance from the North Eastern Council (NEC), the village is being developed with nine Konyak Morungs representing the nine constituencies in Mon. A traditional Angh's house will be constructed at the highest point, serving as a museum showcasing Konyak heritage. The site will also feature an amphitheater, gallery, rostrum, two dormitories, two playgrounds, a helipad, a footpath, and a hanging bridge connecting various locations. He announced that the heritage village, a permanent and artistic landmark, will be inaugurated on April 15, 2025.
On the power sector, Dr. Rio stated that the Solar Power Mission will be implemented under the Department of Power. He emphasized the need for improvement in the sector, citing a revenue loss of Rs. 300 crore. With the rising demand for electricity, he stressed the importance of utilizing solar, hydro, and other energy sources. He also mentioned that prepaid electricity meters will be provided by private companies, but revenue collection will remain under the government’s purview.
The Chief Minister appealed for public cooperation in addressing issues like power transmission losses, electricity theft, and non-payment of bills. He urged consumers to recognize the need to pay for the electricity they consume. While the prepaid meter system may not be extended to villages immediately, it will be mandatory in all urban areas.
(Atuzo, DPRO Kohima, Morotsung, IA)
