Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the tripartite agreement for creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority was “historic” and reflective of the government’s unwavering commitment to peace and inclusive growth in the North Eastern region.
“This is a historic agreement indeed, which will enhance the development trajectory of Eastern Nagaland in particular,” Modi said in a post on X.
The Centre signed a tripartite agreement with the Nagaland government and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation for the formation of ‘Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority’ aimed at addressing the demands of eastern Nagaland.
“I am sure it will open new avenues of opportunity and prosperity for the people. It reflects our unwavering commitment to peace, progress and inclusive growth in the Northeast,” the prime minister said.
The agreement was signed on Thursday in the presence of chief minister Neiphiu Rio and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
“The agreement will pave the way for creation of Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) for six districts of Nagaland viz. Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator, and devolution of powers in respect of 46 Subjects to the FNTA,” an official statement said.
FNTA polls after one-year interim period: Patton
Staff Reporter: Following the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), deputy chief minister Y. Patton said elections to the new body would be held after a one-year interim arrangement.
Speaking to media persons upon his arrival at Dimapur airport, Patton said an interim arrangement would be put in place for one year. He stated that pending issues would be addressed during this period, after which elections would be conducted.
On the implementation of the 46 subjects under FNTA, Patton said details had already been agreed upon by the Government of India and the State government and would be made public in due course.
He informed that the agreement was signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and representatives of Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) led by its president Chingmak Chang.
Expressing gratitude, Patton thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Dr. Rio for their support in making the agreement possible.
Meanwhile, when asked whether the Centre’s assurance of appointing a ministerial-level interlocutor for Naga political talks would mean the exit of current interlocutor A.K. Mishra, Patton clarified that Mishra would not be sidelined.
He said Union Home Minister had assured that future dialogue would be conducted through a political set-up and indicated that a minister of state for home could be deputed.
LJP (RV) hails signing of FNTA: Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) has expressed appreciation to the Government of India and the Government of Nagaland on the signing a tripartite agreement (Memorandum of Agreement) for creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).
In a press release, LJP(RV) national secretary S. Richard Humtsoe described the signing of MoA as as “important step” that reflected a positive and constructive approach towards addressing the long-standing aspirations, development needs, and administrative concerns of the people of Eastern Nagaland.
The party extended congratulations to both government of India and Nagaland government for their commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and inclusive governance.
LJP (RV) also expressed delight at the representation of party MLA from 55 Tobu Constituency, Naiba Konyak, saying his presence in the assembly strengthens the voice of the people and reinforces party’s dedication to the welfare and progress of the region.
The party expressed hope that this interim arrangement would pave the way for lasting peace, equitable development, and a mutually agreeable long-term solution that upholds the dignity and aspirations of the people of Eastern Nagaland.