Guwahati: The Centre said it is focusing on improving existing higher education institutions and aligning them with the National Education Policy (NEP).
Sukanta Majumdar, Minister of State for Education and DoNER, conveyed this in a reply on higher education development in Nagaland.
Nagaland's Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir shared the response after he raised the issue during Zero Hour on December 4, 2025, seeking clarity on land allotment for a proposed IIT in the state.
For the 2023-26 period, the Centre has earmarked Rs 1,292.16 crore under the PM-USHA scheme to improve higher education systems. Out of this, Rs 130.46 crore has already been released to Nagaland as of March 25, 2026.
Separately, projects cleared under different phases of RUSA include 39 initiatives in the state, with a total approved funding of Rs 254.06 crore. The central contribution in this amount stands at Rs 229.57 crore.
Officials also pointed out that Nagaland already has centrally funded institutes such as Nagaland University and NIT Nagaland, and efforts are being directed towards improving their academic standards and expanding their scope in line with NEP goals.
Regarding the proposal for an IIT in the state, the Ministry said it received a request on January 1, 2025, and is currently examining it.
Jamir said the need for an IIT in the state is important for students and long-term growth, adding that he will continue to raise the issue with the Centre.