NAMSAI, Feb 19: Union Minister of State for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Tourism, Suresh Gopi, on Thursday chaired a comprehensive review meeting on the implementation of the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Namsai.
The meeting was attended by i/c Deputy Commissioner K Tikhak, in-charge Superintendent of Police and Heads of Departments. DPO-cum-Nodal Officer for ADP Dr Kesab Sarmah presented a detailed overview of the programme’s progress, highlighting the district’s significant improvement in ranking to 13th position and outlining key implementation challenges.
Emphasising the Government of India’s focus on “Nari Shakti,” the Minister underscored the importance of women’s health, particularly cervical cancer prevention and comprehensive screening. He directed the Health Department to maintain a proper logbook of patients suffering from cervical and mammary gland cancers to ensure effective monitoring and timely intervention.
Regarding the proposed Medical College in the district, Gopi suggested that it be established on the periphery to facilitate easier access for residents of neighbouring districts as well as defence personnel stationed in border areas.
Reviewing the education sector, he expressed concern over low learning outcomes and recommended systematic assessment and training of teachers. He stressed the need for capacity-building initiatives to enable educators to effectively nurture future leaders. Officials informed him that 38 digi-boards have been installed in secondary and higher secondary schools under Phase-I with support from Oil India Limited, and that upper primary schools will be covered in the next phase.
In the agriculture sector, the Union Minister advised promotion of millet cultivation as a nutritious alternative crop and directed that all eligible beneficiaries under agriculture-based schemes be covered without exclusion.
As Tourism Minister, Gopi informed that the Government of India’s “Tourism Boost Vision 2029,” announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, aims to develop 50 top tourist destinations as world-class, integrated, and sustainable hubs by 2029. He encouraged the district administration to apply under the scheme once detailed guidelines are issued.
After the meeting, the Minister visited the District Hospital, Namsai, where he reviewed the healthcare facilities and services being provided to the public.