Kohima: The Nagaland Cabinet has approved the creation of a new district Meluri by bifurcating Phek district to cater to the needs and aspirations of the Pochury community.
The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday chaired by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
This decision addresses the long-standing demand of the Pochury people for administrative autonomy.
Power and Parliamentary Affairs minister and state government spokesperson KG Kenye mentioned the new district would soon become a reality, thereby fulfilling a long-standing aspiration of the Pochury Naga tribe of the state.
He asserted that the decision aligned with the state government’s commitment to equitable development across all regions of Nagaland.
Meluri, home to the Pochury Naga tribe, will become Nagaland’s 17th district, marking the fifth district created in the last three years.
In a significant administrative restructuring, the state government created three new districts in December 2021 by dividing the Dimapur district: Tseminyu, Chumoukedima, and Niuland. This was followed by the creation of Shamator district in January 2022 through the bifurcation of Tuensang district.
Meluri sub-division covers 1,011 sq km and has 31 recognized villages and four administrative headquarters.
Celebrating the historic decision, the Pochury Hoho, the apex body representing the Pochury tribe, termed it the “red letter day” for the community.
The organization expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, his cabinet colleagues, and the local MLA for their unwavering support and efforts in making the creation of the new district, Meluri, a reality.
Meanwhile, the Naga People’s Front (NPF) also welcomed the decision of the state government to upgrade the Meluri sub-division.
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It also acknowledged the significant contributions of MLA Z Nyusietho Nyuthe of the 20 Meluri assembly constituency, who worked persistently to fulfill the aspirations of his people and secure the creation of the new district.
