Pughoboto marks big stride with new administrative complex

Rio highlights importance of entrepreneurship, brotherhood and co-operation

KOHIMA — Pughoboto Subdivision marked a significant milestone in its development journey on Wednesday with the inauguration of a new administrative complex by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. The event, attended by a host of dignitaries, officials, and residents, also saw the inauguration of the subdivision’s first State Bank of India (SBI) branch and a GB’s Customary Court under the Sumi Aphuyemi Kukami Hoho (SAKH).

The new Administrative Complex will house various government departments, including the Office of EE PWD (R&B), Functional Manager Sub-DIC, and Assistant Public Relation Office, which were also inaugurated by the CM on Wednesday.

Inaugurating these new establishments, Rio lauded the dedication and resilience of the people and administration of Pughoboto. He highlighted the region’s historical significance and urged the youth to emulate the exemplary leadership and achievements of their predecessors.

Rio also encouraged the youth to explore opportunities in government service and entrepreneurship, highlighting initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative. He also underscored the success of the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme urging everyone to benefit from such government programmes.

Calling upon the Sumi people, known as the ‘Warrior Tribe,’ to become ‘Warriors of Peace,’ he stressed that unity and brotherhood are essential for progress and prosperity.

He also requested the people not to hinder government developmental projects in the area. He reminded them that India’s East-West Corridor, which passes through Pughoboto and Zunheboto, has been surveyed, but some issues have arisen. He reiterated his request for cooperation, stating that this would pave the way for collective development and help Nagaland achieve progress alongside the rest of the country.

Highlighting the national goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, he cautioned that persistent conflicts over minor matters would only hinder the state’s progress. Rio expressed confidence that the new facilities would significantly enhance government services and infrastructure, marking a positive shift towards progress, efficiency, and a stronger commitment to the people.

Furthermore, Rio urged government officers stationed in Pughoboto to actively engage with the local community and work towards their upliftment. On the other hand, the public should give co-operation and support to the government because participation and support from the public are a way forward, he said.

Minister of Roads and Bridges, G Kaito Aye, urged the people of Pughoboto to demonstrate responsibility in maintaining the newly inaugurated facilities. He emphasised that the infrastructure belongs to the community and they must view themselves as stakeholders in its upkeep. He also acknowledged the long-standing need for an SBI branch and expressed gratitude that it had finally become a reality.

MLA Dr. Sukhato A Sema lauded Rio’s leadership, stating that the people of Nagaland are reaping the benefits of good governance. He expressed gratitude to the chief minister, deputy chief ministers, cabinet ministers, advisors, MLAs, and bureaucrats for ensuring timely land compensation to the residents of Mishilimi and Lazami villages who donated land for the new complex. Sema highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the new Administrative Complex, stating that it would streamline government functioning, enhance efficiency, and ensure consistent service delivery.

Further, the new SBI branch would provide accessible banking services and boost the local economy, he said, adding that the people of Pughoboto would soon benefit from initiatives like the Prime Minister Employment Generation Scheme (PEGS) and Corporate Social Responsibility programmes.

Former Minister Vikheho Swu, and Commissioner of Nagaland, KS Anden Konyak also addressed the gathering which included state legislators, officials, representatives of civil society organizations, among others.

According to a DIPR update, advocate Joshua Sheqi, taking advantage of the chief minister’s presence, submitted a memorandum outlining the Subdivision administration’s key requests. The memorandum urged the upgradation of EAC Ghathashi to SDO and the creation of new EAC headquarters for the KT area at Chisholimi village and for the Asukiqa area at Asukiqa town.

It also called for the establishment of a sub-treasury office in Pughoboto town, the formation of a full-fledged Pughoboto Town Council, and the creation of an RD block in Asukiqa to serve the residents of Puhukito and Asukiqa areas.