Plan Panel approves plan size of Rs 2,000 crore for Nagaland

New Delhi: The Planning Commission on Monday approved plan size of Rs 2,000 crore for 2013-14 for Nagaland, down 13 per cent from a year ago.

This was discussed here at a meeting between Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio. The commission had approved a plan size of Rs 2,300 crore in 2012-13. "We have agreed on a plan size of Rs 2,000 crore, which is fully funded. The growth rate is quite satisfactory in the last several years, many innovative things are happening. We have particularly noted in the agriculture sector, performance of Nagaland is very good, better than the national average," Ahluwalia told reporters after the meeting. He said to encourage agriculture sector development, physical infrastructure, particularly, roads must get priority and the Commission would help the state in accelerating road construction during 12th plan. "By September there will be a fresh look at the things and then whatever problems or requirements we have pointed out, that will be looked after so therefore we are happy," Chief Minister Rio said. Rio said the 12th Plan has been formulated in tune with the national approach. The planning process has been directed at inclusive economic growth with special emphasis on agriculture and allied sector, power, connectivity including air, surface and railway, human resources development including skill development, development of backward and under development areas and planned urban centres. "The 12th Plan projection for growth is 10 per cent for the state. In view of the encouraging trends during the 11th Plan especially the growth in the secondary sector and the tertiary sector, the state will endeavour to attract investment in economic activities that will generate both higher growth and jobs," he said. In reply to a question on the border dispute with Assam, the Chief Minister said the settlement of Naga political issue is a top priority and the state will continue to work on it. PTI