Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has called for advance financing support and a dedicated fast-track clearance mechanism for northeastern states to improve implementation of Externally Aided Projects.

 

Addressing a seminar on “Leveraging Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) in the North-Eastern States” in Shillong today, Chief Minister said the reimbursement-based funding model of EAPs creates challenges for smaller states, as they are required to pre-finance projects. He also pointed out that delays in statutory clearances and extensive community consultations often affect project timelines. He stressed the need to strengthen project preparation, build institutional capacity and enhance coordination among stakeholders for timely execution of projects.

 

The Chief Minister said Nagaland offers significant scope for partnerships in areas such as climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, digital governance and entrepreneurship and reiterated the state’s commitment to the effective implementation of Externally Aided Projects.

 

The seminar was attended by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Chief Ministers of North Eastern states, officials of the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, NITI Aayog, multilateral development banks and senior government officials.