THE Nagaland Government will soon set up a Rs 470-crore cement plant having an annual production capacity of one million tonnes, with an aim to exporting cement to neighbouring Myanmar. 

According to General Manager (Projects) Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation R Angami, the proposed plant would be the biggest of its kind in the North East and the state was expecting to earn revenues from the exports. “We have already completed the feasibility report and the detailed project report is being prepared,’’ he said, adding that private entrepreneurs will be invited to establish the plant. “Lafarge, one of biggest manufacturers of cement, is interested to set up the factory. "But the final decision would be taken only after the project report is ready,’’ he said, pointing out that once completed, it will be biggest heavy industry in Nagaland.     

‘’The plant will be set up in Phek district of Nagaland bordering Myanmar, which has substantial limestone deposits,’’ Mr Angami said. Phek along with Tuensang district, which also borders Myanmar, has 100 million proven reserves of limestone and 1,000 million inferred reserves of limestone. The proposed plant aiming to produce 3,000 tonnes cement per day would boost Nagaland’s sagging finances and provide employment to several youths, Mr Angami said. Nagaland’s only cement plant also in Phek district produces 50 tonnes of cement per day. It would soon be upgraded to produce 150 tonnes per day. Dispelling fears of insurgency, Mr Angami said Nagaland today was one of the most peaceful states in the region and the state government was committed to provide security to the investors. ‘’The state government is facilitating the ongoing Naga peace process and committed to all-round development of the state by ensuring peace.’’

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