CM says development affected despite annual allocations; Centre yet to make firm commitments
Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday raised serious financial concerns ahead of the 16th Finance Commission, cautioning against a repeat of the 9th Finance Commission’s 1989 zero-deficit requirement and warning that inadequate funding could trigger public unrest in Nagaland.
Addressing a party programme at the NPF office in Chümoukedima, Rio said that despite the state receiving approximately Rs 8,000–9,000 crore annually, development has suffered due to financial constraints. He said the matter was raised with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during his recent visit to New Delhi, where the Centre assured serious consideration but made no firm commitment.
On the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), Rio described the arrangement as an administrative mechanism aimed at addressing developmental aspirations in eastern Nagaland while maintaining the unity of the state. He said the issue also figured in discussions held in the national capital.
Touching on regional developments, Rio said discussions during the formation of the Manipur government involved BJP Northeast in-charge Sambit Patra and explored inclusive arrangements among Meiteis, Nagas and Kukis. He proposed a governance structure with one Chief Minister and representation for Naga and Kuki leaders as Deputy Chief Ministers to promote unity and stability.
Regarding the proposed visit of American evangelist Franklin Graham, Rio said the Government of India had granted conditional permission subject to administrative requirements including route plans and non-political engagement. As organisers did not accept the conditions, the visit did not proceed.
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The Chief Minister also addressed issues relating to the Protected Area Permit (PAP), Free Movement Regime (FMR) and border concerns, noting the complexities along the international border with Myanmar and the daily cross-border movement for farming, medical and social purposes.
On oil and gas exploration, Rio said the Cabinet has approved discussions on petroleum development, including a proposed 50-50 royalty-sharing arrangement in disputed areas along the Assam-Nagaland border. A Cabinet sub-committee headed by him has been formed for detailed deliberations.
NPF leader and Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha described the FNTA agreement as a “historic milestone” and said it would be placed before the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for enactment. He added that the delegation also highlighted Nagaland’s financial concerns to the Centre, including earlier funding patterns from the Consolidated Fund of India.
Rio also thanked party leaders and supporters for the reception accorded to him and said the smooth completion of the NPF-NDPP merger reflected the spirit of unity in the state.
