Guwahati, Feb 5: In a major political breakthrough for the Northeast, the Government of India, the Government of Nagaland and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) on Thursday signed a historic agreement paving the way for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) — a long-standing demand of Eastern Nagaland.

The agreement, signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, will grant the proposed FNTA administrative powers over 46 subjects across six eastern districts — Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator.

The move is being projected as a significant step toward addressing decades-old grievances of the region, which has consistently voiced concerns over underdevelopment and inadequate representation since the formation of Nagaland.

Under the new arrangement, the Centre will allocate a fixed annual fund for the development of Eastern Nagaland. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs will also bear the initial establishment expenditure of the FNTA, including the setting up of a mini-secretariat headed by an Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary-level officer.

The development outlay for the region will be proportionate to its population and geographical area, ensuring a structured and sustained flow of funds.
Importantly, the agreement does not alter or affect the provisions of Article 371(A) of the Constitution, which grants special protections to Nagaland.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the signing as a “very significant day” in the journey toward a peaceful and insurgency-free Northeast. He said the government is committed to resolving all disputes through dialogue and democratic processes.

Shah noted that since 2019, the Centre has signed 12 key agreements in the Northeast to address long-standing conflicts and regional demands. He assured ENPO representatives that the Government of India would fully support the development of Eastern Nagaland and shoulder its responsibilities.

The ENPO, which represents eight recognised Naga tribes from the six eastern districts, has for years demanded a separate administrative arrangement citing economic neglect and lack of infrastructure.

The formation of the FNTA is seen as a political compromise — stopping short of full statehood but granting enhanced administrative and financial autonomy aimed at accelerating infrastructure development, economic growth and better governance.
Officials said the agreement envisions faster decision-making, improved resource utilisation and focused development tailored to the needs of Eastern Nagaland.

Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament and senior officials from the Union Home Ministry and Nagaland government were present at the signing ceremony.

The agreement marks another key chapter in the Centre’s ongoing efforts to stabilise and politically integrate the Northeast through negotiated settlements rather than confrontation.

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