Bhandari SDPDB launched, Patton calls for area’s equal development

WOKHA — The inaugural and launching of the Sub-Divisional Planning and Development Board (SDPDB), Bhandari, was held on Thursday at the Bhandari town local ground, with Dy. Chief Minister Y Patton as the special guest.

Speaking at the event, Patton said that it was an aspiration of the people in the area and expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for taking due interest in making the Bhandari  SDPDB a reality.

He informed the people of the area and all departments of the need to nurture the infant SDPDB in order for it to be successful and for the people of the area to advance.

Highlighting various issues, Patton said that 40 AC Bhandari is a backward area of Wokha district that requires attention for equal development and progress. He expressed that Nagaland can only progress when all sections of society grow together.

Lamenting the district’s shortcomings despite being naturally endowed with favourable climatic conditions, he urged the people not to neglect traditional farming, adding that farming can provide a source of livelihood with proper effort and technique.

He noted that the long-awaited delimitation process is expected in 2026 and sought support and prayers for the Lotha legislatures rather than spreading rumours, adding that the Lotha legislators are united in spirit for the community’s welfare.

Advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan, speaking during the event as the special invitee, opined that issues and problems need to be studied from the grass-roots level and called for effective decisions and comprehensive planning according to the needs of the people.

Yanthan informed the gathering that the current government is serious about natural resources and that a committee has been formed to reform and regulate the Nagaland Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, 2012.

He lamented the damage caused by wild elephants and informed the people that because wild elephants are trapped, the people must realise and understand the situation and learn to live and coexist peacefully by understanding their behaviour and movement.

He also discussed the work, policies, and progress on the current oil scenario, as well as the ongoing discussions with the central government and the state.

In his solitary message, Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA, reminded the people to appreciate and acknowledge the elders, leaders of yesterday and today, and urged them to cooperate with their leaders.

MLA and chairman of the SDPDB Bhandari, Achumbemo Kikon, acknowledged people’s participation on the occasion in his welcome address, while praising the chief minister for answering the people’s call and the deputy chief ministers for their collective interest and effort.

Four NPSC achievers (2023) from Bhanadrai A/C were also felicitated on the occasion.

After the inaugural programme, a joint meeting of Bhandari SDPDB and Wokha district DPDB was held at Bhandari Town Hall, with all HODs in attendance.

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