Nagaland to formulate new power policy

Nagaland Power Minister Kipili Sangtam today said the state government was in the process of formulating a new Power Policy to utilise its hydel resources.

"The state is in the process of formulating a Power Policy to exploit the hydro potential," Sangtam said at the Infrastructure Conclave by industry chamber PHDCCI here.

He, however, did not share details such as what will be the focus of the policy and by when it is likely to be implemented.

"Nagaland has very limited hydro potential. It also does not have sufficient coal for generating thermal power. So in every way, our state is constrained," Sangtam said, adding the state is interested to have thermal power plants to meet the deficiency.

He said Nagaland was one of the most backward states and had lowest per capita generation of power.

"The state does not have resources to purchase power. We are dependent on Central assistance. This impacts industrial development of the state," Sangtam said.

Regarding agriculture sector, the Minister said the state does not have the access to markets to sell their products that are mostly organic because of high fertile quality of the land.

"Nagaland welcomes all investment proposals for any developmental activities," Sangtam informed the industry leaders.

Terming the recent series of attacks on North Eastern people in other parts of the country as "disturbing", he said lawlessness should not be allowed and culprits should be dealt with firmly.

"There should not be infighting within India. Otherwise war will break out among ourselves... Life is precious. India cannot shine if we do not respect each other," Sangtam added.