Nagaland Assembly Approves Landmark FNTA Bill for Eastern Development
Historic Passage of the FNTA Bill
Nagaland Assembly. (Photo: 'X'/@DaochierImchen)
Dimapur, Sept 4: The Nagaland Assembly has successfully passed the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) Bill 2026, marking a significant step towards enhancing development and empowerment in eastern Nagaland.
This legislation introduces a new administrative framework with specific provisions aimed at fostering growth in the six districts of eastern Nagaland, focusing on improvements in infrastructure such as roads, educational institutions, healthcare services, and job opportunities.
During the assembly discussions, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized that the new authority would help close developmental gaps and promote inclusive and equitable growth in the region.
A total of twelve members participated in the debate regarding the FNTA Bill.
The earlier version of the FNTA Bill, which was set for discussion on March 27, was postponed due to concerns regarding its proposed powers and functions.
Minister for Housing and Mechanical Engineering, P Bashangmongba Chang, who represents eastern Nagaland, expressed gratitude to both the Government of India and the Nagaland Government for the establishment of the FNTA, calling it a pivotal moment for the state. He highlighted that this achievement resulted from a collaborative effort between the Centre, the State, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO).
Chief Minister Rio described the FNTA as a distinctive self-governing authority designed to meet the social, economic, educational, cultural, and linguistic needs of the eastern Nagaland populace while ensuring democratic governance.
He acknowledged that the six districts under the FNTA—Tuensang, Mon, Longleng, Kiphire, Noklak, and Shamator—have historically faced developmental challenges due to their geographical and historical contexts.
Rio stated that the State Government, in collaboration with the Government of India, ENPO, and other stakeholders, has worked to address the legal and constitutional issues related to the Bill, assuring that the protections under Article 371(A) would remain intact.
Additionally, he mentioned that the State Government is advocating for an increase in the proposed special developmental grant from Rs 5,000 crore to at least Rs 10,000 crore to expedite infrastructure development and economic progress in eastern Nagaland.
Funds for the FNTA will be allocated based on population and area, with the Centre providing necessary financial support through special development grants tailored to the region's needs. The FNTA will also be responsible for creating its annual plans and development programs based on local requirements.
“The establishment of the FNTA will significantly contribute to fulfilling the aspirations of our brothers and sisters from eastern Nagaland,” Rio remarked.
He concluded by stating that the FNTA represents more than just an administrative framework; it symbolizes a collective commitment to equitable development, unity, and progress for all communities.