Strengthening Ties: Assam and Nagaland Legislators Meet for Border Cooperation

In a significant meeting aimed at enhancing cooperation along the Assam-Nagaland border, legislators from both states gathered in Sarupathar. Hosted by MLA Biswajit Phukan, the discussions focused on economic development, cultural exchanges, and a large-scale bamboo plantation initiative. Phukan emphasized the importance of collaboration for peace and prosperity, while also addressing the need for restraint amid ongoing boundary disputes. The meeting marks a hopeful step towards fostering trust and communication between the two states, as they work together to create a harmonious future for their communities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 19, 2026, 17:46 IST

Collaboration Between Assam and Nagaland

MLA Biswajit Phukan welcoming Bhandari MLA at his Sarupathar residence on Saturday (Photo: AT)

Sarupathar, Sept 19: In an effort to enhance grassroots collaboration along the Assam-Nagaland border, lawmakers from both states convened in Sarupathar, located in Golaghat district, on Saturday.

MLA Biswajit Phukan of Sarupathar extended an invitation to Achumbemo Kikon, the MLA representing the Bhandari constituency in Nagaland’s Wokha district, to meet at his residence.

During a public address following their discussions, Phukan emphasized their commitment to collaborate on initiatives related to economic growth, cultural exchange, and fostering peace and prosperity in the border region.

“This meeting transcends mere border discussions; it is fundamentally a cultural exchange initiative aimed at establishing a promising future for our youth,” Phukan remarked.

He also unveiled plans for a significant bamboo plantation project along the border, highlighting the economic potential bamboo holds for communities on both sides.

“We aim to distribute 500,000 bamboo saplings across the Assam-Nagaland border. Bamboo is vital for us, and we have prepared 100,000 free saplings for our Naga counterparts to plant in their villages, which will enhance economic benefits. Simultaneously, we in Assam will also engage in bamboo planting for mutual economic growth,” he stated.

Phukan mentioned that both states would organize a joint plantation event involving the chief ministers of Assam and Nagaland.

“This initiative is apolitical, focusing on climate change and extreme weather patterns. We urge Nagaland to participate actively in the plantation efforts,” he added.

He expressed optimism that this meeting would pave the way for improved communication and trust between the elected officials of both states.

“I believe that today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between Assam and Nagaland, characterized by harmony, brotherhood, peace, and development. Aajjir pora kajiya zero,” he said.

Both Phukan and Kikon have previously asserted that “no inch of Assam’s land will be lost,” while advocating for restraint and neighborly cooperation.

Phukan urged both sides to refrain from escalating tensions until the boundary demarcation issue is resolved through appropriate channels.

“As the clear demarcation of the border is currently beyond our control, we should avoid creating chaos along the border,” he advised.

The Sarupathar-Bhandari area is part of a long-disputed and sensitive interstate boundary, where tensions have historically arisen over evictions, alleged encroachments, and land claims in the Disputed Area Belt (DAB).

The most recent incident occurred on July 13, when an Assamese youth was reportedly assaulted in the Sarupathar subdivision during a confrontation related to a disputed census exercise.

This incident followed the arrival of Nagaland officials at Chainpur No. 2 village in Sector B of the South Nambor Reserved Forest, allegedly to conduct a census survey.

Local villagers protested, asserting that the area is part of Assam and that the survey lacked authorization.

The situation escalated as more individuals from Nagaland reportedly gathered, leading to allegations of assaults on several Assamese villagers.

The Assam-Nagaland boundary dispute has its roots in historical disagreements over demarcation that have persisted since Nagaland became a state in 1963.