Nagaland's eastern districts gain autonomy under historic Frontier Nagaland deal
A historic agreement has been signed to establish the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), granting greater autonomy to Nagaland's eastern districts. Union Home Minister Amit Shah called the deal a major step toward resolving long-standing disputes in the Northeast.
The new authority aims to address development gaps while preserving the state's territorial integrity and constitutional protections.
The Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organization (ENPO) has long highlighted uneven development in the region. For decades, the eastern belt has remained economically underdeveloped despite its strategic importance. Their grievances centred on inadequate infrastructure, funding, and administrative focus compared to other parts of Nagaland.
The newly signed agreement creates the FNTA, a body with administrative and financial powers over 46 specified subjects. It will operate through a mini-secretariat led by an additional chief secretary or principal secretary. Funding will come directly from the central government, covering initial setup costs and a fixed annual budget. Development funds will also be allocated proportionally, based on the region's population and land area.
The deal does not alter Nagaland's borders or weaken the special protections under Article 371(A) of the Constitution. Instead, it recognises both emotional and developmental concerns while reinforcing the government's preference for negotiated solutions over coercive measures.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the agreement as a turning point for a dispute-free Northeast. The FNTA is expected to accelerate infrastructure projects, boost local economies, and improve border management in the region.
The Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority will now take charge of key administrative and financial decisions in the eastern districts. Central funding and proportional budgeting aim to reduce long-standing disparities in development.
The agreement marks another step in the government's approach to resolving regional conflicts through dialogue rather than force. Its success will depend on effective implementation and sustained support from both state and central authorities.
