New Delhi: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday underscored the need for the ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’ vision to resonate with the distinct aspirations of states like Nagaland, reiterating his government’s steadfast commitment to self-reliance and inclusive growth. Speaking at the 10th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog in the national capital, Rio extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for convening the significant gathering, affirming Nagaland’s readiness to forge ahead with timely central support and adaptable institutional frameworks.
The Chief Minister showcased the commendable strides Nagaland has made through its State Startup Policy 2019, meticulously aligned with the national Startup India mission. He highlighted that the state is actively nurturing entrepreneurial spirit via five startup incubators and Entrepreneurship Development Centres (EDCs) spread across all its districts. These centres, he elaborated, provide crucial mentoring, infrastructure, and capacity-building support to budding businesses.
A key highlight of Nagaland’s presentation at the high-level meeting was the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI) 2.0, a financial scheme designed to enhance access to capital for aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses. Rio detailed that the second phase of CMMFI offers sector-wide financial assistance, including back-ended subsidies of up to 30 per cent, assistance with Detailed Project Report (DPR) preparation, and dedicated support through ‘Swavalamban Connect Kendras’ and credit facilitation outreach units.
Further strengthening its innovation ecosystem, Nagaland has also established the Integrated Business Hub and Innovation Centre, a flagship facility serving as a hub for entrepreneurship, startup incubation, and cultural collaboration.
Rio also brought to the attention of the central government several critical projects and issues for the state that are still awaiting approval. These include the long-pending Foothill Road (Trans–Nagaland Highway), the proposed Ciethu Airport in Kohima, the establishment of an Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), the New High Court Complex in Kohima, and the Nagaland Institute of Medical Science and Research. He reiterated that Nagaland is poised for self-reliance with the right support and flexibility from the Centre.
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