The District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) meeting for Wokha district was held on November 26 at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Wokha. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Chief Minister and Chairman of DPDB Wokha, Yanthungo Patton, and attended by Advisor Mhathung Yanthan, MLA Mhonbemo, Deputy Commissioner Wokha Vineet Kumar, IAS, and Superintendent of Police Wokha, Relo Aye.
One of the key agendas discussed was the proposed development of Tsumang Lake, presented by President of District Angler Wokha Nagaland, Senchumo Lotha. He laid out a comprehensive plan for the restoration and beautification of the lake, located in the heart of Wokha town. The proposal emphasized transforming the lake into a recreational hub, preventing land encroachment, improving sewage management to protect the water source, and promoting aquaculture. The plan also highlighted the potential for income generation and tourism development.
In response, Yanthungo Patton acknowledged that the redevelopment of Tsumang Lake has been under discussion for over a decade. He suggested that if government-related hurdles persist, the project may be handed over to the District Angler Wokha Nagaland (DAWN) for effective implementation and structural improvement.
The meeting also deliberated on the adoption of the National Highway Act 1956 for highway construction in Nagaland. Chairman of Lotha Hoho, Mhondamo Ovung, expressed that while the Act includes beneficial land compensation policies, it must be harmonized with Article 371A and the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, to ensure that the rights and interests of the people are not compromised.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Another significant discussion centered on the acquisition of the Wokha Town Public Ground by the government. Lotha Hoho submitted a representation to the Board requesting transparency regarding the sanctioned amount, boundary demarcation, and acquisition rate. Deputy Commissioner Wokha informed that 4.2 acres had been purchased outright at the rate of ₹270 per square foot, and no encroachment had been detected. He added that the government intends to maintain two separate grounds – one for public gatherings and another exclusively for sports. Yanthungo Patton reiterated that no encroachment should be tolerated on government-acquired land. A joint inspection involving Lotha Hoho and relevant departments will be conducted soon.
District Child Protection Officer Wokha, Moasenla Imchen, presented a proposal for the establishment of a shelter home in the district, citing the growing number of children in conflict with the law and the absence of a dedicated facility to house them.
Deputy Commissioner Wokha, Vineet Kumar, also presented a review of the recently held Banana Festival. He highlighted the festival’s economic impact, market expansion, and the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding with research institutions. Key achievements included the launch of the local brand “Yuthi Delight,” the formation of the Banana Growers Network, and the development of Lotha language tools. The identification of 28 banana varieties and the implementation of a credit outreach program were also noted, along with challenges faced during the event.
Departments including Water Resources, PWD, and Roads and Bridges from Wokha and Baghty presented PowerPoint updates on ongoing and upcoming development projects across the district.
The meeting also observed Constitution Day with the reading of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution led by Deputy Commissioner, Wokha.
