A welcome programme for the new Advisor of Urban Development Department & Municipal Affairs Department, Zheleo Rio, IAS (Retd.) was held at the Conference Hall, Directorate of Urban Development, Kohima on 30th March 2023. 

Director Urban Development, A. Chenithung Lotha in his welcome address said that the Department is fortunate to work under the dynamic leadership of Zheleo Rio, IAS (Retd.), Advisor to the departments and look forward to his advice and guidance. 

Principal Secretary, Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, I. Himato. Zhimomi gave a brief presentation of the Department set -up, the Central Scheme & Programmes like, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Swahh Bharat Mission -Urban (SBM-U), National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM), Incubationof new city- Nagaki Global City and State programmes like, scheme for Special Assistance to States (SSAS) Urban Roads, maintenance of Urban infrastructure works. He also gave a brief overview of the 'Asian Development Bank (ADB) assisted' Nagaland Urban infrastructure Development Project which falls under the externally aided project. Zhimomi also apprised Rio of other issues and concerns of the two Departments. 

Advisor, Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Zheleo Rio, IAS (Retd.), in his speech said that he was happy to be assigned to the two departments. He said the departments are vast and there are many challenges but with the support and cooperation of the officers and staff, he is confident that the departments will be able to serve the public diligently.  

Rio also said that there are many flagship programmes in the departments, which are on-going and with sincere efforts of everyone working in the different levels of the departments the flagship programmes will complete smoothly. He said that the departments should work together as a team and should evaluate, study, analyse, exchange views and ideas for speedy implementation of projects and programmes.

The Advisor also advised the officers and staff to submit action plans within the time limits so that no delay will occur when implementing different projects and programmes.  

He also said that there is a need for up gradation of posts in the newly formed districts in Nagaland and therefore suggested that the department give the proposal for up gradation to the government. Rio urged the officers and staff to approach him if any doubt arises concerning the departments and said that he will give his best to the departments. 

The programme was chaired by Joint Director Urban Development, Tarachu Fithu. Felicitations were made by Urban Development Department, Municipal Affairs Department and Development Authority of Nagaland. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Deputy Director Municipal Affairs, Kevileno Solo. 

(I. Tiakumla Ao, IA)