The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) has been welcomed by legislators and the Chief Minister, with leaders calling for peace, unity, and responsible governance in Eastern Nagaland.
Advisor TN Mannen described the MoA as “a welcome step that could help alleviate long-standing negotiation issues,” but cautioned that “power-sharing and fund allocation must be carefully addressed, and funds must be utilised responsibly.” He added that the success of FNTA would largely depend on the quality of leadership over the next decade.
MLA Küzholuzo Nienu expressed hope that the agreement would “usher in peace, unity, and accelerated development in the Eastern Nagaland region.”
MLA Ar. Jwenga said the interim council “should serve as a unifying force” and called for targeted programmes to address developmental disparities in central Nagaland.
Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio stated that the government remains guided by the principles of the MoA and looks forward to “continued cooperation and active participation of the Eastern Naga People’s Organisation in taking the process forward.”
On infrastructure, CM Rio highlighted the Foothill Road project, noting that discussions with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways are ongoing and appealing to landowners and stakeholders for cooperation to resolve land acquisition and forest clearance issues.
Assembly raises key questions on sardar areas, roads and urban areas
During the Eight Session of the 14th NLA held at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Hall, Kohima on 3rd March 2026, various starred questions were raised by members of the assembly.
MLA Nuklutoshi raised a starred question regarding the establishment and status of Sadar areas across the State. Responding, Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton informed the House that Mokokchung district and newly created districts have yet to submit proposals for creating Sadar areas.
Patton explained that Sadar areas are defined based on administrative necessity, typically covering populated and commercially active zones requiring closer governance and law enforcement. He appealed to the concerned Deputy Commissioners and administrative heads to submit formal proposals for government consideration.
Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio emphasized that Nagaland’s administration, governed under Article 371(A), requires careful handling of urban and village areas in line with customary laws.
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He noted that any decision on establishing Sadar areas would require detailed study and consultation before further action.
MLA Tongpang Ozukum raised concerns regarding road construction from KM 101 to KM 125 (Doyang–Izheto) on National Highway 2. Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-Charge T.R. Zeliang informed the House that, as of February 24, 2026, the project has achieved 42.47% physical progress and 41.38% financial progress.
He added that delays in execution are primarily due to land compensation issues along the affected stretch, and assured that efforts are underway to expedite completion.
On the question of the non-allocation of an Administrative Officer-in-Charge for Changtongya Sub-Division, MLA Nuklutoshi was informed that the Personnel & Administrative Reforms Department is in the process of posting a new SDO (Civil) following the transfer of the previous officer. The Deputy Chief Minister assured that the official notification will be issued at the earliest, ensuring continuity in administration.
The Secretary-in-Charge of NLA, Khruohituonuo Rio, reported the Governor’s assent to three significant bills:
• Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (Validation) Bill, 2025
• Nagaland Flood Plain Zoning Bill, 2025
• Nagaland State Finance Commissioner Bill, 2025
Teacher shortages and transfers take center stage in Assembly debate
Concerns over teacher shortages and rationalisation of staff dominated discussions in the Assembly on Tuesday.
MLA Küzholuzo Nienu acknowledged improvements in the education sector but called for “a transparent and comprehensive transfer policy to ensure proper distribution of teachers across districts.”
Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio said demographic shifts and falling student enrolment in some areas necessitate measures to ensure optimal utilisation of teaching personnel.
“We are carefully reviewing rationalisation and redeployment to maintain education standards,” he added.
Nagaland Legislative Assembly adjourned till March 9
The second day of the eighth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly witnessed intense deliberations during Question Hour and discussions on the Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address.
Debate during the session was dominated by the issue of the use of “Vande Mataram,” with several members citing constitutional protections under Article 371A. The matter triggered extensive discussion across party lines.
The Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address was later adopted by voice vote. The House was thereafter adjourned till March 9.
(With DIPR inputs)
