In a representation signed by NPCC vice president, Zachilhu Vadeo, which was submitted to the Chairman of the 13th Finance Commission in Kohima today, the Nagaland unit of Congress party said the State of Nagaland was considered as a special category State but the same was withdrawn after 1989. Therefore, “in view of the unique socio-political situation of the State, pre-1989 funding pattern may kindly be restored,” it stated.
The Congress party also expressed that the finance of the State is purely dependent upon the Central Government as the internal revenue of the State is negligible, as such, there should be a review of the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes between the Union and the State of Nagaland and a liberal sharing of taxes in favour of Nagaland.
Maintaining that the Nagaland is a hilly State with difficult terrain, the NPCC requested that while formulating policies and release of funds for development in the State, the same yardstick should not be applied with plain sector of the country.
It also pointed that the State of Nagaland is a land-locked State without any railway connectivity, except Dimapur town and the road connectivity is therefore vital for development of the State. “The Commission may kindly consider for granting sufficient funds as a one time special grant for construction of Ring Road connecting all the 11 District Headquarters with four-lane provision,” the NPCC said.
The Congress also requested the Commission to consider for increased amount of grant for rural local bodies so as to facilitate growth of economic activities in rural areas.
Further, stating that Nagaland is facing rampant corruption and lack of transparency in the decision making process while allotting developmental works, the Congress urged upon the Commission to direct the State Government to tackle corruption at a war footing, to maintain transparency and fairness in its decision making process and quality control while executing developmental works.
The members of the 13th Finance Commission today left for Imphal after the three-day visit to Nagaland.