Meluri District Declared as "Land of Fortune" on February 21 by CM Neiphiu Rio
Meluri Declared as Nagaland's 17th District
Meluri, February 21: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio officially inaugurated Meluri District as Nagaland’s 17th and youngest district on February 21 at the Public Ground in Meluri.
He congratulated the people of Meluri and expressed gratitude to the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) for supporting the creation of the new district, recognizing Meluri's deserving status as a community and administrative region.
Rio named Meluri as the "land of fortune" due to its abundant natural resources, including minerals, strategic trade centers like Avankhu, and its potential as an eco-tourism hotspot.
He emphasized Meluri's geographical advantage of being close to Myanmar and revealed plans to establish inland waterways to enhance trade and connectivity Myanmar
He assured that the government would support the district's development but stressed the need for active participation from the local population for sustainable progress and development.
Meluri was upgraded From ADC into a full-fledged district on 2nd November 2024 after a long-standing demand from the Pochury tribe, the predominant inhabitants of the area. Previously part of Phek district, Meluri now covers an area of approximately 1,011 square kilometers and comprises 34 recognized villages.
The inauguration ceremony began with the unveiling of a monolith near the NST Complex, followed by the inauguration of a Multi-purpose Hall. The event was led by Chülekhu Nyusou, Chairman of Meluri Town Council, with a dedicatory prayer by Rev. Pantsa Leyri, District Superintendent of UPCI, SEND.
Chief Minister Rio's arrival was marked by the release of balloons, the blowing of a trumpet, and a mass jubilation cry.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including: Dr. J. Alam, IAS, Chief Secretary, Nagaland; Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, Advisor, N&RE, NSDMA; K. G. Kenye, Minister of Power & Parliamentary Affairs; Vezühu Keyho, President of Chakhesang Public Organization.
K. Mhathung Tsanglao, NCS, Deputy Commissioner of Meluri, who led the formal inaugural program and shared the Meluri district profile.
The event featured a welcome address by Chonpa Jurry, President of Pochury Hoho, followed by an invocation by Rev. Rümatho Nyusou, Executive Secretary of Pochury Baptist Church Council. A special melody was performed by Atusa Katiry and the SEND Choir.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Siewatho S. Nyusou, Vice President of Pochury Hoho, and the benediction was given by Rev. Rathvü Thüvüri, Executive Secretary of Pochury Council, NCRC.
The celebration concluded with vibrant cultural performances by the Lozaphuhu Cultural Troupe and various community groups, including ARPO, KAPO, MAPO, PAPO, and PPO.
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Meluri District Profile
Meluri district is the homeland of the Pochury tribe and was officially declared as the 17th district of Nagaland on November 2, 2024. Its administrative journey began as a Chairman Bench Court in 1958 and evolved through various stages, becoming an ADC Headquarters in 2007 before achieving district status.
Basic Information
Administrative Headquarters: Meluri (DC's Office). EAC Headquarters: Phokhungri, Phor, and Lephory. Number of Villages: 34 recognized villages. Distance from Kohima: 166 km. Area: Approximately 1011 sq km
Boundaries: South: Manipur state. West: Phek district. North: Zunheboto and Kiphire districts. East: International boundary with Myanmar.
Population: As per the 2011 Census: 22,588. 2025 Estimate: ~30,000. Population Density: 29.6 persons per sq km. Topography and Climate.
Major River: Tizu River, flowing through the district and exiting at Avangkhu to join the Chindwin River in Myanmar.
Natural Resources
Minerals: Limestones, decorative marble stones, and other minerals.
Flora and Fauna: Rich evergreen forests supporting diverse wildlife.
Transportation:
National Highways: NH 29 and NH 202 connect Meluri to Kohima, Kiphire, Tuensang, and Mokokchung.
International Connectivity: NH 202K links Meluri to the International Trade Center at Avangkhu.
Major Challenges:
1. Education Sector: Need to enhance education quality and increase female literacy.
2. Environmental Concerns: Deforestation and commercial exploitation require sustainable alternatives.
3. Conservation Efforts: Protection of ecology and environment is crucial.
Development Priorities:
1. Healthcare and Education:
Establishment of a District Hospital.
College Setup to reduce travel costs and enhance education access.
2. Road Infrastructure:
Construction of all-weather roads to improve connectivity in hilly terrains.
3. International Trade:
Development of the International Trade Centre at Avangkhu to promote trade and commerce.
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