Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman virtually inaugurated two SASCI-funded projects - Construction of Multipurpose Hall with amenities at Phek and the construction of Guest House for Administrative Officers at Zunheboto town on November 15, 2025, at Niathu Resort, Chumoukedima, following which the Union Minister held a review meeting on the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Projects with Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio and Deputy Chief Minister's T.R. Zeliang and Y. Patton and Senior officials from various departments and other dignitaries.
During her short press briefing with the media after the review meeting, Nirmala Sitharaman said that her visit was more focused on visiting the Aspirational District, Kiphire and to monitor the progress, whether saturation points have been achieved in socio- economic indicators such as in health, education, nutrition, farming, and women empowerment. She informed that Union Ministers have visited the North East more than 700 times and the Prime Minister himself have so far made more than 70 visits to the North East states, reiterating the Prime Minister's Vision and commitment of developing the North East.
Responding to a question regarding road quality, the Union Minister emphasized on the transparency of the tender process and the accountability of contractors, stating that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) blacklists those who fail to meet quality standards. She acknowledged that road damage, particularly post-monsoon, is a widespread issue across the Country, and not just limited to Nagaland, and that efforts are being made to find permanent solutions.
On the query on financial inclusion, the Minister highlighted the improvements made in banking access in Nagaland and all over the country, noting that the number of villages without a banking touch point has significantly decreased from over 1,153 to just 15 and efforts are underway to address these remaining villages. She highlighted the significance of the SASCI initiative in boosting infrastructure development in Nagaland and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting the state.
(Samuel, IA Chumoukedima)
