NEW DELHI: Nagaland Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along called on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for Prime Minister's Office, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy, and Department of Space, and conveyed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre for the consistent and liberal support towards the development of Nagaland, particularly in the field of science, technology, and disaster preparedness.

Along also discussed several ongoing and proposed development projects in the State.

During the meeting, Temjen Imna Along specifically thanked the Ministry of Earth Sciences for the recent installation of the Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) in Dimapur, which marks a major milestone in modernizing the state's meteorological infrastructure.

"The installation of Doppler Weather Radar has significantly enhanced real-time, accurate, and impact-based weather forecasting in Nagaland," said Temjen Imna Along. "It has not only strengthened the State's capacity to manage emergency responses but has also facilitated smoother air traffic operations across Nagaland and adjoining Northeastern states."

Responding to the proposals placed by the Nagaland Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the Government of India's unwavering commitment to the development of the Northeastern region. He said that the proposals submitted by the Government of Nagaland are under active review and that due procedural clearances are being expedited.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Northeast has witnessed transformational growth across infrastructure, connectivity, human resource development, and scientific research. This is just the beginning of a new chapter," said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

The Union Minister reiterated that science, technology, and innovation must become enablers of growth in the Northeast and stressed the importance of capacity-building and skilling of youth in the region. Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that new-age infrastructure such as Doppler Radars, Bioincubators, and regional science centres are being systematically introduced across the Northeastern states to bridge regional gaps and promote equitable development.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that the development of the Northeast has been one of Prime Minister Modi's foremost priorities, resulting in unprecedented progress over the last decade. The region has witnessed a remarkable transformation in infrastructure and connectivity, including the expansion of all-weather roads and highways, and enhanced rail connectivity with new services from state capitals like Itanagar. Several airports have been operationalized, leading to improved aerial connectivity. In the field of science and disaster management, modern instruments such as Doppler Weather Radars and early warning systems have been installed to strengthen real-time forecasting and preparedness. Furthermore, the opening of inland waterways has improved access to remote and border areas.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also emphasized the growing recognition of local talent, with sectors like aviation, hospitality, and healthcare actively recruiting skilled professionals from the Northeastern states. "Prime Minister Modi has visited the Northeast more than 70 times since 2014, symbolizing the Centre's unmatched focus on integrating the region with the national growth narrative," he stated.

The Union Minister concluded the meeting with a reaffirmation of the Centre's proactive approach toward the development needs of the Northeastern states and assured that the Government of India will continue to extend timely support and technical expertise to Nagaland's ongoing and upcoming development projects.