Kohima, 3rd September 2026 (Nokinketer News): The Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Thursday witnessed an extensive discussion on the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) Bill, 2026, with legislators across party lines describing it as a historic initiative aimed at addressing the long-standing developmental aspirations of Eastern Nagaland while reaffirming the state’s unity. Twelve members participated in the debate during the second day of the Ninth Session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
Opening the discussion, Housing and Mechanical Engineering Minister P. Bashangmongba Chang described the establishment of the FNTA as a landmark achievement made possible through the collective efforts of the Government of India, the Government of Nagaland and the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO). He said the development reflected the strength of democratic and constitutional processes and expressed hope that it would usher in a new era of peace, prosperity and development for the region. Highlighting the strategic importance of Eastern Nagaland under India’s Act East Policy, he urged people to work closely with the state government to build a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
Advisor for Information Technology & Communications, Economics & Statistics and Evaluation Sethrongkyu traced the origins of the demand, noting that the ENPO had pursued a special administrative arrangement for more than fifteen years. He expressed confidence that the new authority would translate long-standing aspirations into tangible development and empowerment for the six eastern districts of Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator. He also emphasised that the FNTA would remain an integral part of Nagaland and did not signify any division of the state.
Several legislators echoed similar sentiments. MLA Nyamnyei Konyak appealed for cooperation among the state government, legislators and the ENPO to ensure the effective functioning of the new authority, while Advisor P. Longon described the FNTA as a new institutional mechanism that would address the aspirations of the people of Eastern Nagaland through collective effort and inclusive governance.
Advisor A. Pongshi Phom termed the development a significant milestone in addressing the long-pending concerns of Eastern Nagaland. He acknowledged the contributions of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other stakeholders in facilitating the agreement that paved the way for the authority.
Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along congratulated the people of the six eastern districts, describing the Bill as the culmination of a long-standing aspiration for greater development and empowerment. He urged all sections of society to maintain unity and work together to ensure that the benefits of the new arrangement reach the people.
Advisor for School Education Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome said the creation of the FNTA should be viewed not merely as an administrative measure but as an opportunity to redesign governance, strengthen financial management and improve the utilisation of public resources. Stressing the need for greater investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure and human capital, he called for equitable development across Nagaland and better management of government resources to ensure sustained progress.
Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S. Keoshu Yimchunger described the Memorandum of Agreement signed in February this year as the foundation of the FNTA framework. He said the authority was intended to accelerate infrastructure development, improve public services and generate employment opportunities in Eastern Nagaland while preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the state.
Participating in the debate, MLA Dr. Sukhato A. Sema congratulated the ENPO and the people of Eastern Nagaland for their sustained efforts, expressing confidence that the new authority would ensure a more equitable distribution of resources and balanced regional development. MLA Ar. Jwenga Seb and Advisors Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe and Achumbemo Kikon also participated in the discussion and welcomed the passage of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority Bill.
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