KOHIMA, SEPTEMBER 4: Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio on Thursday, September 3, said the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) Bill, 2026, marks the State Government’s commitment to addressing longstanding developmental disparities in Eastern Nagaland and ensuring equitable and inclusive development across Nagaland.
Concluding the discussion on the Bill in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Rio said historical factors, geographical challenges and limited resources had contributed to the region lagging behind other parts of the State. The proposed FNTA will cover Tuensang, Mon, Longleng, Kiphire, Noklak and Shamator districts and provide decentralised regional governance within Nagaland.
Rio said the revised Bill was prepared following the February 5, 2026 Memorandum of Agreement and consultations with the Ministry of Home Affairs, ENPO, ENLU and other stakeholders. He assured that Article 371(A) of the Constitution would remain inviolable and its safeguards would not be diluted.
Under the proposed arrangement, the FNTA will receive State funds based on population and area, while Special Development Grants are expected from the Government of India. Rio said the Authority would prepare annual development plans for subjects under its control, helping bring governance closer to people in remote areas.
Describing the legislation as more than an administrative arrangement, Rio said it reaffirmed the collective commitment to equitable development, unity and progress for all sections of the people and commended the Bill to the House for consideration and passage.
