After years of protests, election boycotts, and negotiations, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) has finally achieved a major victory. On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the Government of India signed a historic tripartite agreement with the Nagaland State Government and the ENPO.
This agreement paves the way for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA). This new administrative body will grant significant financial and executive powers to the six eastern districts of Nagaland. Union Home Minister Amit Shah called it a “historic day” that will end disputes and bring development to the region.
Here is everything you need to know about the new agreement and what it means for the people of Eastern Nagaland.
What is the New Agreement?
The agreement was signed in New Delhi in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. It officially resolves the long-standing demand by the ENPO for a separate arrangement.
While the ENPO had originally demanded a completely separate state called “Frontier Nagaland,” this new agreement offers a “middle path.” It creates a unique territorial authority within the state of Nagaland. This ensures that the state’s boundary remains intact, but the eastern region gets its own dedicated administration to handle its development.
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Key Features of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA)
The FNTA is not just a regular council; it has been given special powers to ensure real change on the ground.
1. Coverage Area
The authority will cover six districts in Eastern Nagaland:
- Tuensang
- Mon
- Kiphire
- Longleng
- Noklak
- Shamator
2. Financial Autonomy
This is the most important part of the deal. The region will now have a separate development fund. The money will be allocated based on the population and area of these districts. This ensures that funds meant for Eastern Nagaland are actually spent there.
3. Administrative Power
A Mini-Secretariat will be set up specifically for the FNTA. It will be headed by a senior officer (Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary rank). This means decisions can be made locally without always waiting for approval from the main capital, Kohima.
4. Devolution of Powers
The agreement transfers power over 46 specific subjects to the FNTA. These subjects are mostly related to development, welfare, and local infrastructure.
Why Was This Demanded? (Background)
The demand for “Frontier Nagaland” started more than a decade ago. The ENPO, which represents seven major Naga tribes in the region, argued that Eastern Nagaland was neglected.
- Lack of Development: The region suffers from poor roads, lack of schools, and weak healthcare facilities compared to the rest of the state.
- Political Protest: The anger was so deep that the ENPO had boycotted elections in the past to show their dissatisfaction.
- Strategic Importance: These districts share a border with Myanmar, making their development crucial for India’s national security.
What Leaders Are Saying
Amit Shah (Union Home Minister): He assured the people that the Modi government would implement this agreement in “letter and spirit.” He also promised that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) would bear the initial cost of setting up the FNTA.
Neiphiu Rio (Chief Minister of Nagaland): The CM welcomed the pact, stating it reflects “mutual trust” and will take development to every doorstep in the eastern region while keeping the Naga family united.
What Happens Next?
Now that the paperwork is signed, the real work begins.
- The Central Government will release funds to set up the Mini-Secretariat.
- An interim body is expected to be formed within a year to manage the transition.
- Government officers posted in these six districts have been asked to prepare for the new system.
This agreement is seen as a major success for the peace process in Northeast India. It addresses local grievances without breaking the state, offering a model for solving similar disputes elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Frontier Nagaland a new separate state?
No. It is not a separate state. It is an autonomous territory within the state of Nagaland. It will still be part of Nagaland but will have its own budget and administration.
Q2: Which districts are part of the FNTA?
It includes six districts: Mon, Tuensang, Longleng, Kiphire, Shamator, and Noklak.
Q3: Will this affect Article 371(A) of the Constitution?
No. The agreement clearly states that Article 371(A), which gives special protection to Naga religious and social practices, customary laws, and land ownership, will remain fully intact.
Q4: Who signed the agreement?
It was a tripartite (three-party) agreement signed by the Government of India (Centre), the Government of Nagaland, and the ENPO.
Q5: What is the main benefit for the people?
The main benefit is Financial Autonomy. The region will get guaranteed funds proportional to its population and area, ensuring better roads, schools, and hospitals.