Nagaland chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio’s address at the 79th Indian Independence Day programme held at the New Secretariat Plaza at Kohima projected a multi-sectoral vision-political reconciliation, digital governance, farmer-centric growth, health and education reforms, youth empowerment, infrastructure upgrades, and women’s uplift -anchored on peace, unity, and inclusive progress. The chief minister’s reaffirmation to secure resolution of the unresolved and seemingly intractable Naga political problem is a stark reminder that since 2003, the matter has not moved even an inch closer towards resolution; instead the number of factions from four, today has multiplied to 29 and counting. The chief minister was categorical in accepting the imminent bifurcation of the state for the proposed Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT), a demand spearheaded by Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) following the tripartite talks between the central and state government and ENPO on July 23,2025 in New Delhi. On the Indo-Myanmar border, he raised concerns over the reduction of Free Movement Regime (FMR) and stressed a flexible approach to protect border communities. The chief minister highlighted digitalization of Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime in which 26,534 permits were issued since January 1,2025.The State has introduced new ILP categories for agricultural labourers, transporters, domestic helpers, and drivers. Village Councils will now maintain ILP registers, strengthening monitoring at airports, railways, and hotels. Besides the new ILP categories, the new regime also includes the “guarantor(s)” clause which has literally only raised questions about the dilution of the rule. Other areas which found mention in the I-Day speech included a reiteration to promote agriculture under such central schemes as PM-KISAN which supports over 2.3 lakh farmers with ₹686 crore. Nagaland has launched its brand ‘Naga Organic’, covering 30,500 hectares and 31,334 farmers under organic cultivation. Under horticulture, ginger, Naga mircha, and other crops were expanded with new collection centres. Nagaland also won the Best of India Award 2025 for contributions to the organic industry. The ground reality is that unless there is guidance for proper implementation of central schemes and ensuring quality and competitive prices, it faces a tough future. Nagaland Coffee is becoming popular across India and global coffee eco systems as in Europe, America, Australia, Africa etc. The chief minister also reminded that Nagaland Coffee was formally adopted as the State’s Unique Selling Proposition (USP) with the brand slogan “Taste of Eminence.” Efforts in sericulture, fisheries, and livestock are strengthening farmer incomes. Achieving such a recognition is not the end, since competition is getting more stiff with many north east states also focusing on the cashing in on their natural wealth. Quality control, price and ability to produce / manufacture huge quantities will be challenges that lie ahead. In sports, especially football and to an extent badminton, Nagaland has indeed fallen behind most north eastern states. Construction of sports infrastructure is needed but at the same time, these should meet national standards. Even with regard to football, Nagaland needs to have Olympic standard size football grounds of 100–110 metres long by 64 to 75 metres wide instead of 70 to 100 meters by 45 to 60 meters which is meant for older youth or lower-tier adult play. Infrastructures are meant to promote local talents and not to be hosts for regional tournaments. It is hoped the government will be serious about genuinely promoting local produce and sports talents which can mean a lot for the present and the future.
Sunday, August 17, 2025