Rio for early settlement of Naga issue

Kohima, Nov 11 (UNI) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has asserted that his government supported the ongoing peace process between the Centre and the Naga insurgent groups and the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) wanted an early settlement of the vexed issue for a peaceful atmosphere in the state and all-round development.

Official sources here today said Mr Rio stated that the DAN government was always a facilitator to the peace process to pave the way for a negotiable settlement of the Naga issue and was ready for an alternative arrangement in the event of a permanent and acceptable settlement.

The Chief Minister said this while inaugurating an administrative building of the Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) at Englan under Wokha distrit, about 110 km from Kohima, along the Nagaland-Assam border.

He also said Wokha, along with Mokokchung, Mon, Peren and Dimapur of Nagaland, were very rich districts with vast mineral deposits and petroleum products, which could be utilised for the betterment of the people of the state.

He appealed to the landowners, public, tribal chiefs and others to cooperate with the government to arrive at a mutual understanding so that minerals and petroleum products could be explored for the all-round development of the people of the state.

He also said Wokha district was the richest district in Nagaland in terms of soil, viable climatic conditions, mineral resources and agriculture and horticulture potential.

He further stated that the rays of progress and development could reach faster when the people supported and cooperated with the government.

He emphasised the need of unity among all sections of Naga society and termed it as the biggest weapon for development and progress and to reap the fruits of developmental packages announced by the government.

UNI AS DPM SKB DS1300