Chizokho Vero
Kohima | November 21
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today said that the state government will take up the matter with the centre of raising a territorial army (ecological) in Nagaland. Rio has given this signal in view of related matters which figured in the discussion hour of the annual meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) held here this morning at Raj Bhavan. The meeting was presided over by Governor K. Sankaranarayanan, who is also convenor of the RSB.
It is pertinent to mention that the state government has already communicated to the centre on the need to raise a ecological territorial army in the state. However, it is yet to materialize. Rio told the meeting that the government will take up the matter.
Referring to 164 INF (BN) TA (H&H) Naga, where 800 Naga youth are there at present, Rio said “We want another TA battalion so as to give more opportunity to the Naga youth.” Touching on vacancies in the paramilitary forces, Rio stressed on the need to initiate coaching camp for inspiring candidates. Saying that the lack of coaching classes posed a drawback for aspiring candidates to qualify for various vacancies, he stressed on the need to provide proper training to Naga youth ahead of recruitment rallies so they do not miss opportunities.
Referring to today’s meeting, he termed it as significant ‘as it provides the platform to show concern for ex-servicemen, widows and dependent where problems and welfare schemes are deliberated upon’. Rio also said that the cabinet has approved for formation of a Nagaland private security agency rule. He hoped that it will create avenues for ex-servicemen as well.
Rio also expressed happiness that ‘tremendous progress has been witnessed’ within the house of the Rajya Sainik Board in Nagaland within a five-years time. The chief minister also stressed on the need to take up more welfare scheme for ex-servicemen.
Among the many agendas figured in the meeting includes, formation of Serving Soldiers Welfare Board, construction of dwelling units for serving soldiers and ex- servicemen in Nagaland, deployment of 164 INF (BN) TA (H&H) Naga, re-organization of Rajya Sainik Board, welfare schemes and concession measures and resettlement schemes for ex-servicemen, widows of ex-servicemen and families of soldiers serving soldiers etc. Minister for Home Imkong L. Imchen, chief secretary Lalhuma, additional chief secretary Lalthara, representatives from Ministry of Defence, top army officials and government officials attended the meeting.
