A meeting was convened at Conference Hall, Civil Secretariat, Kohima on 1st May 2026 under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary Nagaland, Sentiyanger Imchen, IAS regarding effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 and in light of the Supreme Court’s directions in Civil Appeal No. 6174 of 2023.

In his opening remarks, Chief Secretary, Sentiyanger Imchen highlighted that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the SWM Rules, 2026, on 27th January 2026, superseding the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 w.e.f. 1st April, 2026. He underscored the critical importance of sustainable solid waste management, and emphasized that adherence to the provisions of the Rules is not optional but a statutory mandate. All departments were directed to ensure strict compliance. 

It was further informed that comprehensive roadmap and time-bound action plans must be developed in coordination with district administrations, Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), and Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) and communities. Reiterating the seriousness of the matter, the Chief Secretary cautioned that failure to comply with the Rules and directions of the Supreme Court will have serious legal repercussions for the State and that the Court Order has mandated accountability, holding concerned authorities and officers liable for any lapses. All departments were therefore urged to act with urgency, diligence, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Principal Secretary, EF&CC, Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS also emphasised on public awareness, segregation at source, convergence, inter-departmental coordination, timely compliance of the Court Order and active collaboration at all levels to ensure effective planning, execution, and monitoring of Solid Waste Management Rules 2026. 

The meeting was attended by Administrative Heads of Departments (AHoDs) and Heads of Departments (HoDs).  

(DIPR)