Nagaland: Settlement Of Naga Insurgency Vital For Economic Development Of State, Says CM Neiphiu Rio

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday (14 November) said that the settlement of the vexed Naga insurgency problem between the Naga rebels and the central government is vital for economic development of the state.

"An amicable solution will greatly impact the development of the Naga people as a whole and will definitely pave the way for them to catch up with the rest of the country as well as the world," Rio said while addressing the Kohima District Planning and Development Board Day out cum Pre Christmas programme at Touphema.

Rio also urged every Naga to pray and work towards an early and amicable solution to the Naga political issue so that the young and up-coming generation will be able to grow up in a peaceful environment and will be able to access all the opportunities available to them and develop to their fullest potential.

"It is time for the Nagas to come forward and make use of all our available resources to ensure that the state develops economically at a rapid pace," the Chief Minister appealed.

Earlier on 7 November, the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) had revealed that the separatist outfit and the Indian government had mutually agreed to go for final touch on the agreed competencies for conclusion of the Naga talks.

The NSCN-IM, which had several rounds of negotiations with the Indian government after signing a ceasefire pact in August 1997, said that it has taken into account the commitment and assurance of the government to resolve the issues of Naga national flag and constitution at the earliest.

(With inputs from IANS)