Governor Yadav to visit Eastern Nagaland for first time amid FNTA implementation concerns

Kohima, June 25: Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav will embark on his first official visit to the state’s eastern districts and Meluri district from July 5 to 10, a tour that comes amid growing concerns over the implementation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) agreement.

Raj Bhavan sources said the six-day visit will see the Governor review developmental activities, interact with district officials, civil society groups and local stakeholders, and assess issues affecting the region.

The visit assumes significance as the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction over delays in operationalising the FNTA agreement. The apex body representing eight recognised Naga tribes of six eastern districts has accused the state government of failing to implement the tripartite accord signed in February this year.

The agreement, signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, provides for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority covering Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator districts, with the devolution of powers over 46 subjects.

For more than a decade, ENPO has demanded either a separate state or a robust autonomous arrangement, citing chronic underdevelopment and perceived neglect of Eastern Nagaland.

Governor Yadav’s visit also comes against the backdrop of renewed political engagement on the broader Naga peace process. The state government’s Political Affairs Committee (PAC), headed by Chief Minister Rio, recently urged the Centre to elevate the peace talks by appointing a ministerial-rank interlocutor to expedite negotiations.

The PAC, attended by Deputy Chief Ministers T.R. Zeliang and Y. Patton, ministers, MPs and MLAs, reiterated the resolutions adopted during the September 12, 2024 consultative meeting in Kohima, which called for unity among Naga stakeholders and the resumption of political dialogue at the highest level.

A key stop during the Governor’s tour is expected to be Meluri, Nagaland’s newest district, which was officially notified on February 21, 2025. The district has been described by former Governor La Ganesan as a “land of fortunes” because of its rich mineral resources, biodiversity and strategic potential as a gateway to Southeast Asia through the proposed Tizu-Chindwin inland waterway.

Officials said the Governor’s interactions with local bodies are likely to focus on the implementation of the FNTA, infrastructure deficits and public grievances, making the visit one of the most politically significant engagements in Eastern Nagaland since the signing of the autonomy agreement.

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