New Delhi: In a landmark step towards realizing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a peaceful and prosperous North East, the Government of India, Government of Nagaland, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) signed a historic agreement in New Delhi today. The accord, signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah and Nagaland Chief Minister Shri Neiphiu Rio, paves the way for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) for six districts — Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak, and Shamator — with powers over 46 subjects.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the day as “highly significant” for a dispute-free North East. He recalled that a decade ago, armed groups and unresolved disputes were threatening regional peace. Since 2019, the Modi government has signed 12 key agreements in the North East, focusing not only on signing but implementing them effectively. He assured ENPO that the Government of India would support Eastern Nagaland’s development, including funding for FNTA’s establishment and ongoing financial outlay.
Shah highlighted the strategic importance of the ENPO region and acknowledged the long-standing perception among Eastern Nagaland residents of being denied justice. He appreciated the cooperation of Chief Minister Shri Neiphiu Rio, his cabinet, and local MPs for addressing ENPO’s demands with openness and completing negotiations successfully. “Today, a very long-standing dispute has reached a happy conclusion,” he said, congratulating the people of Eastern Nagaland and all stakeholders involved.
The agreement envisages the establishment of a mini-secretariat for FNTA, headed by an Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, and a development outlay proportional to the region’s population and area. Importantly, it does not affect the provisions of **Article 371(A)** of the Constitution. The arrangement aims to promote financial autonomy, enhanced decision-making, infrastructure growth, economic empowerment, and optimal resource utilization in Eastern Nagaland.
Shah emphasized that the agreement reflects the government’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue, mutual respect, and democratic processes, rather than violence. He underlined that this accord would remove obstacles to the region’s development and further the integration of Eastern Nagaland into the broader developmental vision of the North East.
Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, other cabinet colleagues, and senior officers from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and Government of Nagaland were also present at the event.
