The Naga People’s Front (NPF) celebrated its 64th Foundation Day at the Capital Cultural Hall, Kohima, on Wednesday, with party leaders reaffirming their commitment to the aspirations of the Naga people, an honourable political solution to the Indo-Naga issue, and the all-round development of Nagaland.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland and President of the NPF, said the Foundation Day was not only an occasion for celebration but also a time for remembrance, reflection and introspection on the party’s journey of more than six decades.

Extending greetings to party workers, supporters and well-wishers across all 60 Assembly constituencies of Nagaland, as well as NPF members in Manipur, Rio described the party as one of the oldest regional political parties in the Northeast, closely associated with the history of modern Nagaland and the aspirations of the Naga people.

He paid tribute to the founding fathers, former presidents, leaders and grassroots workers whose sacrifices and dedication had sustained the party through electoral victories, defeats, political divisions and challenging periods. Highlighting the party’s political philosophy, Rio said the NPF was founded on the conviction that the aspirations of the Naga people for honour, dignity and respect must also be pursued through peaceful and democratic means.

He reiterated the significance of the party’s Cock symbol and its motto, “Fide Non Armis” — By Faith, Not Arms.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Rio said he began his career in the NPF youth movement, went on to serve as Youth President and State President, and had now returned to lead the party as its president. He expressed gratitude to party members and supporters for the trust and confidence placed in him.
Calls for Honourable and Acceptable Naga Political Solution
Emphasising that lasting peace remained fundamental to Nagaland’s progress, Rio stated that the decades-old Indo-Naga political issue must reach an honourable, inclusive and acceptable conclusion.

He said the NPF Government continued to work closely with the Government of India and other stakeholders, serving as an active facilitator despite not being a negotiating party in the ongoing dialogue between the Government of India and Naga political groups.
Rio appealed to all negotiating parties to demonstrate sincerity, understanding and accommodation, placing the aspirations of the Naga people above individual and organisational differences.

He also called upon tribal bodies, civil society organisations, churches, student organisations, women, youth, political parties and concerned citizens to work collectively towards peace and unity, stressing that differences in opinion should not undermine their shared aspirations.
Highlights Development Priorities and Government Initiatives
Rio maintained that development could not remain on hold while efforts for a political solution continued. He stressed the need to create opportunities for young people, improve healthcare and education, strengthen agriculture and entrepreneurship, and expand employment opportunities.

Referring to various government initiatives, he highlighted programmes such as the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Scheme, Nagaland Startup Policy, Nagaland Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Mission, Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme, Chief Minister’s Life Insurance Scheme and Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission.
He also cited the establishment of Nagaland’s first medical college, the Nagaland Staff Selection Board and the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland as important steps towards strengthening institutions, improving recruitment transparency and promoting economic growth.

The Chief Minister acknowledged that significant challenges remained and assured that the government would continue working towards better governance, stronger institutions, transparency and inclusive development, ensuring that no district, community or section of society was left behind.
Expresses Solidarity with Manipur
Addressing the situation in neighbouring Manipur, Rio expressed deep anguish over the loss of innocent lives, destruction of villages, suffering and displacement caused by violence.

He conveyed solidarity with the affected people and appealed for reconciliation, restoration of trust and lasting peace, stating that the suffering of Naga people, wherever they may be, could not be a matter of indifference.
He expressed hope that peace and normalcy would return to Manipur, enabling all communities to live together in safety, dignity and harmony.
Urges Party Unity and Grassroots Strengthening
Rio welcomed the newly joined and merged legislators, leaders and party members into the NPF, describing the party as an organisation with room for all who shared its principles and commitment to the welfare of the Naga people.
He also acknowledged the party’s political association with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), tracing their cooperation to the formation of the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland following the 2003 Nagaland Assembly elections.
With the next elections approaching, Rio called for the strengthening of the party organisation at every level, from the state leadership to the grassroots. He urged party workers to remain active and connected with the public across all 60 constituencies, cautioning that public trust must be earned through sincerity, commitment and service.
He particularly encouraged the women’s and youth wings to take a greater role in the party’s present and future, emphasising the importance of nurturing young leaders and increasing women’s participation.
Rio said the NPF’s strength had always rested on its connection with ordinary people and urged leaders and workers to remain accessible, humble and responsive to public needs.
Envisioning a united Naga community and a prosperous Nagaland, he called upon party members to preserve the legacy of their predecessors and build a stronger organisation and a better future for coming generations.
He concluded by congratulating party members, workers, leaders and supporters on the 64th Foundation Day, expressing hope that the NPF would continue to contribute to the welfare, dignity and progress of the Naga people.
The programme was chaired by H. Chuba Chang, Working President, while the comperes were Ate Kevichüsa, General Secretary, and Ninoto Awomi, Associate Press Secretary. Pusazo Luruo, Working President, presented a brief history of the party, followed by tributes.
Short speeches were delivered by C. L. John, Metsübo Jamir, K. G. Kenye and G. Kaito Aye, all Hon’ble Ministers, along with Losii Dikho, Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur.
The Dayspring presented the musical item, “Lead Me to the Rock.”
The Foundation Day address was delivered by Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland and NPF President. Chingwang Konyak, President Emeritus, administered the pledge, while Abu Metha, Working President, delivered the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with a benediction by Ahovi Zhimomi, Working President.

The post NPF REAFFIRMS PEACEFUL, DEMOCRATIC PATH TO NAGA POL SOLUTION AT FOUNDATION DAY first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

According to the movement, it had submitted a representation to the Governor earlier, followed by a second representation on October 12, in which it issued an ultimatum. However, the movement stated that the deadline expired on October 21 without any response.

It also claimed that its request for an appointment with the Governor had been denied.Expressing concern over what it described as repeated attempts to seek a response without any outcome, the movement urged the public to gather at Lok Bhawan on October 28 to support its demand for a solution.

The movement also clarified its position regarding the Governor, stating that it had not called for his resignation. It explained that its position was that if the Governor was unable to work for the welfare of the Naga people, he should resign. However, it maintained that the statement was not a direct demand for his resignation.

Sharing its perspective on the prolonged absence of a solution, the movement expressed the view that certain sections of society might not want a resolution to the issue. It observed that there were individuals across different sections of society who, in its opinion, did not want the situation to change and preferred to remain in their existing positions.

At the same time, it emphasised that Nagaland was large enough for everyone to coexist.The movement further stated that it had attempted to reach out to the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), but had received no response. It added that if there was any misunderstanding between the organisations, it remained willing to sit across the table for discussion and clarification.

Reiterating its call for public support on October 28, the Naga Youth Movement stressed the need for dialogue and a meaningful resolution to the Naga political issue.

The post REPEATED REPRESENTATIONS, NO RESPONSE: NAGA YOUTH MOVEMENT CALLS FOR OCT 28 GATHERING first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

Speaking during the flagging-off ceremony of the Nagaland State Transport (NST) bus service between Niuland and Dimapur, Zhimomi highlighted the importance of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, particularly in light of the recent deaths reported in Longleng and Mokokchung following the consumption of spurious alcohol.

He stressed that community leaders, along with government and non-government representatives, must work together to prevent the sale of alcohol in their respective areas.The minister also reiterated that there were reasons why the state government had not lifted the NLTP Act, emphasising that it should not be lifted. His remarks come amid renewed public concern over the consequences of alcohol consumption and the enforcement of the prohibition law in Nagaland.

Addressing broader issues of development and unemployment, Zhimomi said that development must be driven by the people themselves and cannot simply be brought in from elsewhere. He observed that while people often speak about unemployment, there is considerable work that needs to be done, stressing the importance of collective responsibility and local participation in development.

Zhimomi also cautioned the public against tobacco consumption, describing it as dangerous to health, and urged people to refrain from the habit.

The post ‘THERE’S A REASON NLTP ACT REMAINS’: JACOB ZHIMOMI’S STRONG MESSAGE FROM NIULAND first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

The service had been operational earlier but was discontinued for some time before being resumed to improve public transportation and connectivity between the two areas.Speaking at the flagging-off ceremony, Zhimomi described Niuland as fortunate to have the NST bus service at a time when there is a shortage of buses. He expressed hope that development in the district would take place gradually, adding that improvements would be introduced one step at a time.

The minister also informed that he had submitted proposals for the introduction of a helipad and the establishment of a railway substation in Niuland, which he said could further improve connectivity and contribute to the area’s development.Emphasising the importance of public cooperation, Zhimomi urged residents to work together towards the overall development of Niuland.

He highlighted the need to focus on basic necessities, including sanitation, healthcare and education, stating that such improvements would be undertaken gradually. He also called on residents to take responsibility for maintaining their surroundings and ensuring that essential infrastructure, including roofs, was properly maintained.

The programme also featured speeches by the Deputy Commissioner of Niuland and the Additional General Manager of NST, who highlighted the importance of the bus service and its role in facilitating transportation for the public.

The resumption of the NST bus service is expected to improve connectivity between Niuland and Dimapur while providing residents with an additional public transport option.

The post JACOB ZHIMOMI FLAGS OFF NIULAND-DMP BUS SERVICE; HINTS AT MORE DEVELOPMENTS first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

Shopkeepers in the area stated that the practice of setting up temporary stalls during Durga Puja has been an annual occurrence, adding that vendors have been opening stalls along the roadside without obtaining permission from any authority.

However, the East Dimapur Town Council has maintained that setting up stalls on public streets without proper authorisation is not legal.Speaking on the issue, the Chairperson of the East Dimapur Town Council said that while the council respects all religions and recognises the importance of festivals, there must be a clear understanding of where celebrations can be held without inconveniencing the public.

He noted that the practice had been continuing for years, when there was no town council in place, but emphasised that the situation must now be addressed under the existing civic administration.The chairperson stated that no community should be allowed to block a national highway in the name of celebrating a festival, regardless of religious affiliation.

He urged those organising the celebrations to explore alternative locations that would not disrupt traffic or obstruct public pathways.He further informed that the council would convene a meeting with the concerned community and take strict action to address the issue. He also stated that an order had been issued this year directing the concerned parties to clean the river after carrying out their religious practices.

Regarding street vending, the chairperson stressed that vendors must obtain the necessary permissions and follow the proper procedures before setting up stalls in public areas.The council’s statement comes amid concerns over the need to balance religious and cultural celebrations with public convenience, road safety and the regulation of street vending along the busy NH-29 corridor.

The post NH-29 TURNS INTO VENDING ZONE DURING; EDTC CHAIRPERSON DENIES GRANTING PERMISSION first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

Established in 2022 with just 20 vendors, WENN Bazaar has grown into a platform for women entrepreneurs across Nagaland. The fourth edition in 2025 featured 111 vendors and attracted around 10,000 visitors, while this year’s edition saw increased participation from across the state.

Speaking to Nagaland News Network, local entrepreneurs highlighted the challenges of running businesses, including the high cost of raw materials, limited resources, funding constraints and the time-intensive nature of their work. They also shared suggestions for future editions, including organising a night bazaar, promoting locally made handicrafts and featuring more local artists to attract visitors.

WENN Media Cell representative Rongsen said the organisation was taking note of the feedback and hoped to return with an improved edition. She added that the bazaar provides a platform for both retail vendors and entrepreneurs, while promoting women’s entrepreneurship and creating employment opportunities through business development. She also expressed hope for greater collaboration and support in the coming editions.

The post FROM FRUSTRATION TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP: WOMEN SHARE THEIR BUSINESS JOURNEYS first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

According to the Konyak Union Mon Unit, the action followed multiple representations to the government, particularly the Department of Power, seeking the removal of smart meters allegedly installed without the knowledge or consent of consumers. The union had also demanded that further installation of smart meters in Mon town remain suspended until adequate public awareness and consultations were conducted.

The union alleged that despite assurances given by the Department of Power on June 23, the smart meters had not been replaced as committed. The department had reportedly assured that all smart meters installed under the domestic category without the knowledge or consent of consumers would be replaced with the old static meters.The department had further assured that the installation of smart meters in Mon town would remain suspended, and that the process would resume only after adequate public awareness programmes and consultations with stakeholders, ward authorities and consumers had been conducted.

However, the Konyak Union Mon Unit alleged that these assurances had not been honoured, prompting it to seal the Executive Engineer’s office. The development highlights the ongoing disagreement over the implementation of smart meters in Mon town and the demand for greater public consultation and adherence to the assurances made by the department.

The post KONYAK UNION SEALS EE’S OFFICE IN MON OVER SMART METER ISSUE first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

Addressing the youth, Jakhalu encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones and take advantage of the opportunities available. She highlighted that around 10–12 organisations and departments had been brought together to provide information on various career and employment prospects. She also urged young people to spread awareness among their friends, neighbours and families to ensure wider participation.

Alongside the job fair, a futsal tournament featuring 34 teams is being held to encourage youth participation and engagement. A medical camp has also been organised, offering basic health check-ups and blood tests. Jakhalu stressed that while the government continues to introduce initiatives for young people, their willingness to explore opportunities and take proactive steps towards their future remains essential.

The post TWO DAY FUTSAL AND CAREER FAIR AIMS TO EMPOWER YOUTH IN DIMAPUR 3 first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

Addressing the media at its office in Churches Colony, Dimapur, on October 16, the association’s president, along with the general secretary and vice president, said the action followed repeated appeals to the member not to operate on Sunday. The association also cited pressure from churches and other organisations to restrict Sunday business activities.

On allegations of forced membership, the association maintained that membership is voluntary and highlighted the benefits available to its members.

The clarification comes after the Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, told Nagaland News Network on October 14 that the association’s actions must comply with the Constitution, relevant regulations and applicable laws. He had also stated that the association would be summoned to his office to seek clarification on the matter.

The post SVAN MEETS WITH DC; GOING BY ASSOCIATION’S CONSTITUTION, SAYS SVAN first appeared on Nagaland News Network.

According to a press release issued by the Office of the Director General of Police, the State Crime Police Station (SCPS), Nagaland, registered the FIR following a written complaint alleging that the money was demanded without any written notice, receipt, challan or other lawful document to justify the demand.

Police stated that a preliminary enquiry was conducted by Dimapur Police, during which statements were recorded and an audio recording was recovered. Based on the findings, a case was subsequently registered at the State Crime Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The police have sought further investigation, including forensic examination of the audio recording, to establish the facts. The allegations remain under investigation.The development comes amid earlier controversy surrounding Hesuh’s detention in connection with wildlife-related social media posts. In September, the People’s Youth Organisation (PYO) had raised concerns over his detention and alleged demand for INR 1 lakh for his release, calling for an impartial inquiry.

The case had also drawn attention over the seizure of a Great Barbet, a protected bird, which was subsequently returned and released at Porbami Reserved Forest, according to earlier reports.The matter had prompted wider public discussion over wildlife protection, enforcement procedures and the handling of the case.

The latest FIR marks a formal step towards investigating the alleged demand, although no conclusion has yet been reached regarding the allegations against the individuals concerned.Nagaland Police have stated that further investigation is underway to establish the facts.

The post Nagaland Police Register FIR Over Alleged INR 1 Lakh Demand in Vezhoto Hesuh Case first appeared on Nagaland News Network.