Our Correspondent
Kohima | March 6
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio today announced several new initiatives for Nagaland’s Budget 2025-26.
Here are the major initiatives and announcements
Nagaland Skill Mission
The Nagaland Skill Mission aims to train 5,000 youth in the FY 2025-26 in self- employment and private-
sector employment, with entrepreneurships linked to CMMFI, according to Nagaland’s Budget 2025-26
presented by Dr. Rio at the 6th session of 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) here today.
The mission aims to train and place 5,000 youth in a one-year period, with a special focus on emerging
industries such as hospitality, tourism, healthcare, logistics, and skilled trades especially in the
construction sector (plumbing, electrician, mason, heavy machinery operators etc.)
To ensure effective implementation, credible training partners (TPs) across the country with at least 50% placement assurance are being identified.
Foraspiring trainees in need of financial resources, specialized skill loans are being mobilized.
Rs 5 Crore has been allocated for this initiative.
Stating that tourism sector is a major employment generator, with government investments in homestays, tour guide training, and tourism-linked infrastructure, the Chief Minister said that the new state scheme will provide concessional loans to support 500 homestays and 200 transport units under CMMFI.
Living Morung Initiative
The Living Morung initiative aims to revitalize and preserve traditional Naga culture and traditions.
Historically, the Morung served as a center where youngsters were trained in various skills, ethos and
values as also a center for social bonding. However, rapid modernization has led to the decline of this
institution, causing a loss of indigenous knowledge, traditional skills, and cultural identity. To
address this, the Living Morung initiative will re-establish Morung-inspired cultural hubs, where
intergenerational learning, skill training, and heritage conservation can take place, ensuring that
traditional wisdom is passed down to future generations.
With Rs 5 crore allocated, the initiative will be anchored within the Department of Art & Culture,
working with tribal councils and elders to preserve and adapt Naga heritage for future generations.
Nagaland State Solar Power Mission To address Nagaland’s energy deficit, the State Solar Power Mission aligns with PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (Solar Rooftop Power Generation Mission). The GoI subsidy of Rs 33,000 per kW (up to 2 kW) and Rs 19,800 per additional kW is complemented by a state
subsidy of Rs 20,000 per kW, capped at Rs 50,000 per beneficiary. The mission will mobilize banks for solar rooftop loans, ensuring affordability. With Rs 10 crore allocated, the initiative aims to enhance energy security while reducing long-term power costs for consumers.
Drone Training Centre
NGIS of Nagaland has been acknowledged as one of the most competent Drone Centres in the country by the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory council. The new drone training initiative builds on this and will provide job-linked training programs in collaboration with private partners for employment oriented
certified training such as drone pilot, drone service technician, drone software developer, drone
survey master, drone surveillance master. Rs. 2.5 Crore has been allocated for this initiative.
Expanding Banking Access to Unbanked Blocks
With 20 unbanked development blocks still lacking banking services, the government will support
infrastructure development for approach roads and pucca buildings to facilitate long-term leasing to
banks. Further, to give an impetus to financial inclusion, wherever a bank opens a branch in an
unbanked block, the Government will facilitate that all possible Government transactions in that block
will be routed through the bank.
Capacity Building of Local Bodies & Public Servants
Aimed at enhancing governance efficiency, this initiative will provide structured training for
municipal bodies, village councils, and government officers in resource mobilization, policy
formulation, financial management, and digital governance.
Rs. 2 crore is allocated in this budget for this initiative. Chief Minister’s Fellowship Program
To nurture future leaders and policy innovators, the Government is launching the Chief Minister’s
Fellowship Programme, with an allocation of Rs 2.50 crore, aimed at developing a cadre of highly skilled
professionals equipped with a deep understanding of Nagaland’s development priorities.
RFID-Based E-Way Bill Processing: To streamline trade, tax compliance, and logistics, RFID-based e-way bill tracking will replace manual inspections, reducing delays and revenue leakages. Integrated with GST and transport databases, this system will ensure real-time tracking and automated
clearance, creating a business-friendly, efficient trade environment while improving tax compliance. Rs. 2 Crore has been allocated for this initiative in this budget.
Improving NST
In line with the State's commitment to modernize public transport infrastructure, the Government will
initiate the introduction of a fleet of over 40 buses to the Nagaland State Transport (NST) this year. Additionally, Rs 2.50 crore has been allocated to NST to upgrade essential amenities, ensuring quality
facilities at five priority NST stations to begin with. The amenities will include drinking water, waiting areas, locker rooms and quality toilet facilities.
Fast Tracking Development in Interstate Border Areas
To fast track the developmental needs of villages in the interstate border areas, a new initiative is
taken by the Government in the current budget with an allocation of Rs 15 crore. This initiative will
focus on creation of vital amenities such as buildings, roads, power and water supply.
