Wazeho, Sept. 23: The Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU) of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly conducted a two-day study tour to Wazeho on September 17 and 18 to assess the operational status and future prospects of the Mini Cement Plant (MCP) and the Decorative & Dimensional Stone Plant (DDSP), two key industrial projects expected to boost economic development in the region.
The inspection team was led by COPU Chairman Dr. Sukhato A. Sema and included Committee member Dr. Neisatuo Mero, along with MLA of 20-Meluri Assembly Constituency and Advisor for New & Renewable Energy, Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe. Officials from the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Secretariat also accompanied the delegation.
During the visit, the Committee reviewed the progress of the 150-tonne-per-day Mini Cement Plant, which has been leased to M/S Ramung Enterprises for a period of 30 years under a Memorandum of Understanding signed on November 12, 2024. Officials informed the Committee that major repair and renovation works on the plant’s machinery have been completed and preparations are underway for trial production. However, adverse weather conditions have caused some delays in the commissioning process.
The Committee was informed that the limestone available in the area is among the finest in the Northeast and has the potential to produce high-quality 43-grade cement, creating opportunities for industrial growth and employment generation. Members of the Committee also witnessed a demonstration of the cement manufacturing process and expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved so far.
The delegation further inspected the Decorative & Dimensional Stone Plant, which is currently functioning and producing interlocking and hollow block bricks. The Committee noted that the plant has the potential to contribute significantly to the local construction sector while creating livelihood opportunities for nearby communities.
Discussions during the tour also focused on future infrastructure and market expansion plans. Among the proposals examined was the development of inland waterway connectivity, which could facilitate the transportation and export of cement and related products to neighbouring regions, including Myanmar and other Southeast Asian markets.
Emphasizing the need for administrative support, the Committee recommended the establishment of an Administration Office in Wazeho to improve coordination, streamline operations and encourage local business activities. Members observed that such a facility would also help generate employment and strengthen the area’s economic ecosystem.
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Overall, the Committee expressed satisfaction with the readiness of the Mini Cement Plant for trial production and the successful functioning of the Decorative & Dimensional Stone Plant. COPU appreciated the efforts of Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, district officials, the Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation Limited (NSMDCL), and the Department of Geology and Mining for their cooperation and support.
The Committee also acknowledged the support of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for promoting industrial development in the state and thanked the Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for facilitating the study tour. The visit underscored the state government's commitment to harnessing local resources, promoting industrialization and creating sustainable economic opportunities in Nagaland.
