In a landmark visit, Union Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, became the first Central Minister to visit Shamator District, Nagaland, since India’s independence. His two-day visit from February 25 to 26 focused on assessing the district’s socio-economic development and reviewing centrally-funded projects. Varma inspected public infrastructure, road connectivity, and rural development projects, including those under the Public Works Department (PWD). At the Community Health Centre, he distributed Ayushman Health Cards to beneficiaries, reaffirming the government’s commitment to accessible healthcare.
At Government Higher Secondary School, Shamator, the Minister interacted with students, addressing their queries and inspiring them with insights from his career. He also met with leaders from the Yimkhiung, Tikhir, and Sumi tribal communities, discussing their development priorities. Calling Shamator a “District of Aspirations,” he urged residents to leverage central government policies for progress. Varma praised the unity among Shamator’s diverse communities, referring to it as the “Brotherhood District.” He assured the people that the Union Government remains committed to inclusive development in the region.
The Minister highlighted the initiatives taken under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and acknowledged the role of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, in integrating central and state schemes for Nagaland’s progress. During his visit, Varma was accompanied by Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, Keoshu Yimchunger, Tribal Council President Thrungso, Colonel Archit Goswami of the 14 Assam Rifles, and Deputy Commissioner of Shamator, along with representatives from tribal communities.
