Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner, Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS chaired a review meeting with various departments to assess the progress of projects being implemented under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) at the Development Commissioner’s Conference Room, Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima, on 22th July 2026.
Reviewing the status of the projects, Sema observed that despite Nagaland receiving a considerable number of projects and substantial financial assistance from MDoNER and the NEC, the overall implementation and outcomes have not been satisfactory. He noted that many projects have been delayed without valid reasons, resulting in cost overruns and preventing the timely delivery of benefits to the public. He added that the funding agencies have also expressed concern over the implementation performance of several departments.
Sema informed the departments that the State Government would strengthen its focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and called for collective efforts to improve Nagaland’s performance on SDG indicators. He observed that while some districts have shown encouraging progress, disparities remain and departments must align their planning and implementation with measurable development priorities to bridge critical gaps and improve people’s quality of life.
The Development Commissioner further observed that although the Government of India had released funds for several projects, many departments had failed to utilise them promptly and continued to receive reminders to draw and utilise funds available in the Central Nodal Account (CNA). He cautioned that unless departments improve project implementation, fully utilise released funds and submit Utilisation Certificates (UCs) and project completion reports on time, the State’s prospects of securing approval for new projects could be adversely affected, as MDoNER and the NEC consider the implementation status of ongoing projects while appraising fresh proposals.
Expressing concern over delays in project planning, Sema noted that despite the Planning & Transformation Department circulating the Calendar of Action for 2026-27, many departments had failed to submit their proposals within the prescribed timelines. He directed all departments to strictly adhere to the calendar and avoid the recurring financial year end syndrome.
Emphasising the importance of advance planning, he instructed departments to complete preparatory activities, including preparation of estimates, obtaining statutory approvals and completing the tendering process during the monsoon season so that works can commence immediately with the onset of the working season. He said this would help eliminate recurring implementation delays and ensure efficient utilisation of the working season.
Highlighting the consequences of poor implementation, Sema revealed Nagaland Government refunded about 32 crs to the Government of India in recent years due to delays, non-utilisation of funds and lapses in project execution. Describing the refunds as a serious loss to the State, he said such instances should not be repeated.
Stressing the need for accountability, the Development Commissioner said the State Government may be compelled to initiate stringent action against defaulting departments, contractors and firms responsible for delays and poor execution. He stated that erring departments would be held accountable, while contractors repeatedly failing to complete projects within the approved timelines and prescribed specifications could face blacklisting.
Sema also stressed the importance of documenting and publicising departmental achievements. He directed all departments to regularly upload information on their activities, milestones and successful projects on their official websites, dashboards and ministry portals, or submit them to the Planning & Transformation Department for wider dissemination. He observed that many noteworthy initiatives remain unnoticed due to poor documentation.
Calling for greater focus on quality development, Sema directed all departments to ensure that projects under MDoNER, NEC, External Aided Projects (EAP) and the State Plan are planned and implemented judiciously to address genuine developmental needs, bridge critical infrastructure and service gaps, generate employment opportunities and deliver measurable, people centric outcomes. He urged departments to adopt a results oriented approach so that development initiatives translate into tangible improvements in the lives of the people.
(Esuihangle IA)
