Nagaland, a northeastern state of India, has been experiencing significant development and progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the Centre. This claim was recently made by Temjen Imna Along, Nagaland Minister and State BJP President, during a press conference discussing the nine years of the Modi government.
Addressing the media, Along highlighted the commitment of the Modi government to ensure equitable development across all regions of the state. He emphasized that the BJP government has been dedicated to serving the underserved, empowering women, providing opportunities to the youth, and supporting the farming community.
One of the notable achievements mentioned by Along was the substantial increase in infrastructure spending in the Northeast. While approximately Rs 2 lakh crore was spent on infrastructure projects in the region from Independence until 2014, the Modi government has allocated Rs 7 lakh crore in the last eight years, indicating a significant boost in investment.
Furthermore, Along highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity and transportation in Nagaland. He mentioned that the Look East Policy has been rechristened as the Act East Policy, signaling a proactive approach to regional development. Additionally, the withdrawal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from large parts of the Northeast has contributed to a more peaceful environment.
Nagaland has witnessed the inauguration of its second railway station along the Dhansari-Shokhuvi line, named Shokhuvi, after a gap of 100 years. Moreover, the government is actively constructing an 82-km-long broad-gauge railway route from Dhansiri in Assam to Zubza in Kohima, further improving connectivity within the state.
The Minister also highlighted the completion of 15 National Highway projects in Nagaland, covering a length of 266 km, at a total cost of Rs 4,127 crore. These infrastructure projects are expected to enhance connectivity, boost trade, and improve overall accessibility in the state.
In terms of financial support, Nagaland has received a significant grant of Rs 4,773 crore in the fiscal year 2022-23 from the Fifteenth Finance Commission, a considerable increase from the Rs 1,283 crore allocated in 2009-10. This financial aid is expected to support various developmental initiatives in the state.
Nagaland has witnessed commendable development and progress under the BJP government at the Centre, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The increased focus on infrastructure development, improved connectivity, withdrawal of AFSPA, and financial assistance are indicative of the government’s commitment to the holistic growth of the region. These achievements showcase the positive impact of the Modi government’s policies in Nagaland and underline the potential for further growth in the state.