Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai on Sunday 5 visited key development projects in Mokokchung district, inspected infrastructure funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC), and lauded Nagaland’s progress in education and development during his official visit to the district.

Addressing a gathering at Ungma village after inspecting the NEC-funded Library-cum-Museum under the Department of Art & Culture, Rai said Nagaland’s people were hardworking and committed to progress.

“The people here speak with kindness, are hardworking, and are deeply committed to their work. I am happy to see the importance that has been given to education and development in Nagaland. The Deputy Commissioner, the Superintendent of Police, and the district administration are all committed to serving the people. The state government is taking care of the welfare of the people, and the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, gives special attention to the development and progress of the Northeastern region,” he said.

The Union Minister also congratulated Padma Shri awardee Guru Sangyusang Pongener who was present, describing his recognition as a matter of pride for the nation. Recalling the Padma Awards ceremony, Rai said he witnessed Pongener receive the honour from the President of India in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and members of the Union Cabinet.

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Highlighting the cultural richness of Nagaland, Rai said every district and village has preserved its own traditions, while noting that folk songs and indigenous customs remain vital in passing on values and identity to future generations. He commended Pongener for his dedicated efforts to research, preserve and promote Naga folk traditions.

Earlier, Rai was accorded a warm welcome by the Ungma Village Council and village leaders before inspecting the Library-cum-Museum project. Officials briefed him on the implementation and facilities of the project, which received NEC funding during 2007-2009. Construction began in 2013-2014, was completed in October 2024, and is awaiting formal inauguration.

Later in the evening, Rai visited Dr Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), where he toured various departments and inspected the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra within the hospital premises. He reviewed the availability of affordable generic medicines and interacted with hospital officials and staff. It may be noted that the project for the Critical Care Unit (CCU) at IMDH is funded by NEC.

As part of his visit, Rai is scheduled to hold a review meeting on Monday at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office with Heads of Departments, district officials and representatives of Civil Society Organisations to assess the implementation of Central government schemes and review developmental priorities, including projects under the Centre’s Purvottar Sampark Setu initiative.

The Mokokchung visit forms part of Rai’s ongoing tour of the Northeast, following engagements in Assam and Mon district.