The Central Government, the Nagaland Government and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) on Wednesday signed a landmark agreement to establish the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), a move aimed at accelerating development and strengthening governance in the eastern region of the state.
The agreement was signed in New Delhi in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
ENPO, an apex body representing eight recognised Naga tribes, has long been advocating for a separate administrative arrangement for six eastern districts of Nagaland: Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator. The newly created FNTA will have devolved powers over 46 subjects, marking a significant step toward administrative and financial decentralisation in the region.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Shah described the signing as a major milestone for a dispute-free North East. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a peaceful and developed region, he said the agreement reflects the government’s sustained efforts to move the North East away from insurgency, violence and long-standing disputes. He noted that since 2019, the Centre has signed 12 key agreements in the region to promote peace and stability.
The Union Home Minister also assured the people of ENPO of continued support for the development of Eastern Nagaland, urging them to maintain faith in the democratic process and participate actively in it, with the promise of fair justice and due respect.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio termed the pact historic, saying it underlines the government’s commitment to inclusive and equitable governance and its resolve to ensure that development reaches all parts of the state.
Under the agreement, the FNTA will have a mini-Secretariat headed by an Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary. Development outlays for Eastern Nagaland will be shared in proportion to population and geographical area. The pact, however, clearly states that it will not affect the provisions of Article 371A of the Constitution.
The arrangement is expected to promote overall development in Eastern Nagaland through greater financial autonomy, enhanced decision-making powers, faster infrastructure growth, economic empowerment and more efficient use of resources.
