Nagaland Government Addresses Oil Exploration Concerns Amid Civil Society Demands

The Nagaland government has pledged to address concerns regarding oil exploration along the Assam-Nagaland border, following calls from civil society groups for broader consultations with affected communities. Minister Temjen Imna Along emphasized the importance of considering the views of landowners and stakeholders before proceeding with exploration activities. This commitment comes after a tripartite MoU was signed to facilitate mineral oil operations in the region. Community organizations are seeking clarity on land ownership and environmental safeguards. The government is also focused on providing relief to areas affected by recent floods and landslides, ensuring that the needs of impacted residents are prioritized.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 10, 2026, 16:54 IST

Nagaland Government's Response to Oil Exploration Issues

File image of Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along. (Photo:@AlongImna/X)

Kohima, Aug 10: In response to appeals from civil society organizations for broader consultations with impacted communities, the Nagaland government has committed to addressing concerns regarding oil exploration along the Assam-Nagaland border.

During a press interaction following a BJP event in Kohima, Nagaland's Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along, stated that the state Cabinet had discussed the matter and would consider the worries of landowners and other stakeholders before proceeding.

“The Cabinet believes that all concerns must be addressed comprehensively,” Along remarked, referencing a Cabinet meeting that took place in Wokha on August 6.

His comments come in light of demands from civil society groups for engagement with affected villages and communities prior to the commencement of exploration activities.

Specifically addressing the concerns raised by the Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC), Along emphasized that stakeholders in border regions likely to be impacted by oil exploration must be included in the decision-making process.

This issue arises following the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among the Centre, Assam, and Nagaland in New Delhi on June 11, aimed at facilitating mineral oil operations, including the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the border areas.

While the government has framed the agreement as a means to unlock the region's economic potential, community organizations are demanding clearer information regarding land ownership, environmental protections, compensation, and the rights of indigenous populations.

Similar apprehensions have been voiced by Naga groups concerning resource extraction in regions affected by the ongoing Assam-Nagaland boundary dispute.

The Cabinet also assessed the progress of the proposed Foothill Road project.

Along indicated that discussions with the Centre, particularly the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, have revolved around the proposed road widths of 30 meters, 18 meters, and 12 meters.

Additionally, the Cabinet reviewed the flood and landslide situation across Nagaland, where numerous areas have experienced significant damage in recent weeks.

Along stated that the government's immediate focus is to support affected residents and assist them in returning to normalcy.

“Politics is one aspect,” he emphasized, highlighting the government's duty to ensure relief and rehabilitation for impacted communities.

According to Along, regions such as Mon, Tuli, and parts of Tuensang have been severely impacted by landslides and building collapses, resulting in loss of life and extensive property damage.

The minister also mentioned that the government is actively working to restore normal conditions and reduce disruptions caused by adverse weather.