Kohima, March 23: Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio is considering creating two new departments, one for women and the second for the development of backward areas, in addition to the existing 76 in the state.
“The department for development of backward areas will concentrate on Tuensang and Mon districts,” Rio said in his maiden public address in Kohima during the “celebration of victory” ceremony today.
Planning minister Shurhozelie, Speaker Kiyanielie also attended the function. Kohima falls under Northern Angami-1 constituency.
Rio said the two new departments would be created after the presentation of the full budget in the Assembly next week. The government will present a vote on account on the budget for financial year 203-04 in the Assembly on March 27 and 28.
Rio said as women played an important role in Naga society it was important to create a separate department for them. He said it was essential to bring Tuensang and Mon districts on a par with the other developed districts. Finance minister K. Therie said the government might also set up a tribal affairs department.