Naga Issue Holding Up State’s Development, There Should Not Be a Wait and Watch Situation: Nagaland CM Rio

Naga Issue: CM Rio did not mince words when he said that there should not be a wait and watch situation on the Naga political issue.

From the long pending Naga political issue to the demand for Nagaland Frontier Territory and oil and gas exploration and uranium deposits in the state, Nagaland’s longest serving Chief Minister, 74-year-old Neiphiu Rio spoke exclusively to Northeast Live Editor-in-Chief Wasbir Hussain. CM Rio did not mince words when he said that there should not be a wait and watch situation on the Naga political issue and that he is hopeful that good sense will prevail and a solution will be arrived at on the issue that has been hanging in balance for close to 30 years now. He also said that he has received no objection from landowners and positive signals are also coming from the Naga groups regarding exploiting the natural resources that the state is sitting on. Here is the entire interview

Wasbir Hussain: As Nagaland’s longest-serving Chief Minister you have seen it all, so what is your personal goal now and what is that one thing that you would like to achieve?

Neiphiu Rio: By the grace of God and people’s support, serving my people for a long time is a privilege. But it has a lot of responsibilities. As you are aware, Nagaland is a troubled state. It’s called a disturbed area leading to the enforcement of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) due to the unresolved Naga political issue. So, it is difficult, but somehow, I am continuing for the love of the people.

Wasbir Hussain: During your several terms as a Chief Minister, you generally provided stable governments. In the last two terms, however, the state has had an opposition-less government. So, what has been your biggest challenge in the state so far?

Neiphiu Rio: Naga political issue is our top priority agenda and biggest concern. Because of unresolved issues, many things are not progressing as they should. In today’s modern age, there is huge competition globally, including in India. Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that India should become a developed country by 2047. At this stage, I fear that we will be left behind. That is why my government’s top priority is to unite the people and work toward resolving the Naga political issue.

Wasbir Hussain: Do you see a resolution to the Naga political issue in the near future? Last year, the NSCN-IM made a hard-hitting statement that they would continue their movement and even return to armed struggle if their demands for a separate flag and Constitution were not met. However, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said many times that India will have only one Constitution, although there are reports that the government is open to allowing a flag for cultural purposes. Do you think after 27–28 years of negotiations since 1997, a meeting point has to be reached by both sides? What do you think is the way forward?

Neiphiu Rio: The state government is only a facilitator. We are not part of the negotiation. We listen to the voices of the people, who strongly demand a solution. Therefore, a way forward must be found. State leaders are doing their best, and the public has also jointly passed several resolutions emphasising that the Naga political issue must be resolved amicably ensuring that the solution is honourable, inclusive, and acceptable. There should be a meeting point. While one group may make strong statements, the fact remains that negotiations are still ongoing. We cannot give up. Since the NSCN-IM signed the Framework Agreement in 2015, I believe good sense will prevail, and we will eventually reach a solution. I am hopeful that a way forward will be found.

Wasbir Hussain: Your government has already taken several steps to facilitate the Naga peace process, including setting up the Political Affairs Committee and maintaining an opposition-less government for two terms. However, despite these efforts, the deadlock over the two demands of the NSCN-IM continues. After their strong statement last year, there was still a deadlock, but recently, the Government of India’s representative, A.K. Mishra, visited Nagaland and engaged with all stakeholders. There have also been media reports suggesting that the NSCN-IM has once again agreed to continue the dialogue. What is the update now? Are you planning to meet the Union Home Minister Amit Shah on this?

Neiphiu Rio: Yes, we recently held a meeting in the Assembly, and all political parties, as part of the opposition-less government, stand united on this issue. We believe that all political parties should jointly meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah to apprise him of the state government’s stance and the voice of the people.

Both sides need to make greater efforts to find a way forward. There should not be a ‘wait and watch’ situation.

Wasbir Hussain: You mentioned that both sides should not wait and must act quickly to restart negotiations. After the NSCN-IM has said that they are once again ready to continue with the peace process, have you spoken to their leadership or the Government of India regarding this?

Neiphiu Rio: Yes, we are meeting the Naga groups and emphasising the need for seriousness in the peace process. This is not the time to wait. How long can we wait? Neither the leadership nor the public can afford further delays. The negotiations have already gone on for too long. At some point, a leader must make a decision.

Wasbir Hussain: During your speech on April 6 at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly while presenting the budget for 2025-26, you outlined your government’s key priorities. Notably, you highlighted areas like artificial intelligence and drone technology. While the Naga political issue remains crucial, development must go on parallely isn’t it? Because you cannot wait for the issue to be resolved and then do development work. So, what are the main development priorities for the state?

Neiphiu Rio: We have a youthful and well-educated society as well as capable and talented in many ways. Also, we have set up innovative initiatives and we have worked out a mechanism where they can be skilled and the government can give support so that in this financial year, we generate a minimum of 5000 jobs both in government and private sectors.

Regarding the GIS Centre, which has developed drone technology, we successfully implemented its use for delivering essential supplies, including medicines, to remote areas during the COVID-19 outbreak. Drones were used to transport materials between districts such as Kohima and Wokha, as well as to villages that were otherwise difficult to access.

To further enhance this initiative, we have also established training programmes for drone pilots and management, ensuring that this technology becomes a viable and sustainable solution for the state.

Additionally, NITI Aayog conducted a study on our efforts and has responded positively. They have expressed interest in partnering with the state government, particularly in advancing technology-driven solutions.

Wasbir Hussain: During your budget speech, you have mentioned about responsible mining and the judicious use of natural resources. Dr. Ranjit Rath, Chairman and Managing Director of Oil India Limited, recently told me that Nagaland sits on vast reserves of oil and gas. If these resources are properly explored and utilized, the economic profile of the Naga People as well as Nagaland will change forever. Why you have not been able to take advantage of these natural resources?

Neiphiu Rio: Oil and natural gas exploration in Nagaland began in 1973, and its presence was proven. Trial drilling continued until 1994, revealing significant deposits. However, due to the unresolved Naga political issue and student agitation, further exploration was halted. It is a huge setback for the state as these natural resources have the potential to generate revenue in the range of thousands of crores annually.

Wasbir Hussain: What is the current status?

Neiphiu Rio: The public is very keen and the landowners in the village have given no objection to going ahead. Even the Naga groups are also realising that we are facing failures. Positive indications are given that our natural resources should be exploited. I am having discussions even with my Assam counterpart Himanta Biswa Sarma. Even in the disputed areas and within Nagaland, we have reached an understanding where royalty will be shared between the border areas of both states. Additionally, I am scheduled to meet Union Oil and Coal Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and we are working towards reaching a final conclusion on the matter.

Wasbir Hussain: There is a general perception that land in Nagaland belongs to the community rather than the state government, which has been a major hurdle in resource exploration. However, you have mentioned that you have received no objections from the landowners. Once full-scale drilling begins, large-scale exploitation of these natural resources will follow. Have you thought about a mechanism to regulate this process?

Neiphiu Rio: We have our own petroleum and natural gas legislation and have passed a bill to ensure that the benefits reach landowners, the community, and even areas without direct oil reserves. These regions will still receive development funds as part of the revenue-sharing mechanism.

When I raised the issue of oil exploration in Srinagar in 2003, during an All-India meeting of chief ministers, governors, and DC members, we were advised to engage with the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and the Ministry of Home Affairs to develop a workable formula. At that time, recognizing land ownership rights, the central government agreed to provide 2% of royalty payments directly to landowners as a form of landowners’ recognition.

Wasbir Hussain: You mentioned you are receiving positive signals, including No Objection Certificates from the people and positive indications from Naga political groups. Can we expect oil and gas exploration in Nagaland to begin sooner than later?

Neiphiu Rio: I am very hopeful about oil and gas exploration in western Nagaland. In the eastern districts, we have vast mineral resources, including limestone, granite, marble, and even valuable metals like nickel and cobalt. There are also indications of possible uranium deposits.

Studies have been conducted by the Ministry of Geology and Mining, and findings have been communicated to the state. A detailed PowerPoint presentation on these prospects was also shared during the NEC meeting, highlighting Nagaland’s significant potential in the mining sector.

Wasbir Hussain: You said that due to objections from Naga political groups in 1973-74, oil and gas exploration could not proceed. Now, when you meet Naga leaders on the political issue, have you had the opportunity to discuss these natural resources with them and that they should not oppose them?

Neiphiu Rio: Yes, we have had open discussions on this issue because natural resources are crucial for development. If we do not explore and utilize them, how can we meet the growing demands for infrastructure, education, and social development? Without sufficient resources, progress becomes difficult.

Currently, we rely on deficit grants from the Finance Commission, and even basic commitments like salary payments become challenging. When I took over as Chief Minister in 2017, the state had a deficit of over Rs 2,600 crore. Through careful financial management, we have reduced it to Rs 860 crore. I think we are doing much better.

Wasbir Hussain: Another major issue in Nagaland is the Frontier Nagaland Territory. What is the latest update on this? The state government submitted its comments on the draft agreement for the Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority on November 6, 2024. Has there been any progress since then?”

Neiphiu Rio: The draft was sent by the Union Home Ministry, after which we reviewed it and gave our views. The Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO) and the elected members are currently having discussions on establishing a compromise formula to move forward.

Wasbir Hussain: Did you face significant opposition to the central government’s draft agreement for the Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority?

Neiphiu Rio: Not much, as discussions are still ongoing, and the goal is to find the best possible model for the region. However, any proposal that is impractical cannot be implemented.

This is a democratic government so if somebody wants to be under the governor it would mean permanent President’s Rule. So as the biggest democratic country in the world, India has to have a duly elected and the elected government at the state should not and can not be bypassed. That is why elected representatives must engage in discussions with the ENPO to establish a workable and acceptable solution.

Wasbir Hussain: The ENPO apparently wants the funding for the Frontier Territory to come directly through the Governor, bypassing the state government. However, you have pointed out that this cannot be the case because Nagaland already has an elected government. Additionally, Frontier Nagaland itself has 20 MLAs who are part of this elected system. Given this, how do you see the situation evolving?

Neiphiu Rio: Exactly, if they bypass the state government then the 20 MLA will have no job. They will not be accounted because they represent the people and any grievances with the government should come through elected members.

Wasbir Hussain: So, you have no objection to the formation of the Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority with elected members. Your main concern is the technical aspect, particularly their demand that funds be routed directly through the Governor. That is the main point of disagreement that needs to be resolved. Right?

Neiphiu Rio: There are autonomous bodies in Assam and several other states that follow a structured system. As I mentioned, they can adopt the best existing model from within the country.

Wasbir Hussain: Your government has implemented several measures for the development of villages along interstate borders. What about the villages along the border with Myanmar? With the recent scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR), many villagers who have close relatives on both sides of the border are facing challenges. Previously, they could move freely within 16 kilometres of each other’s territory, but that is no longer possible. What are your and your government’s views on this decision? Have you engaged with the central government or conveyed your concerns regarding its impact on border communities?

Neiphiu Rio: At the last NEC meeting on December 21, 2024, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah, other officials, chief ministers, and governors were present, I raised this issue. The Free Movement Regime (FMR) was imposed on Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland. However, I questioned why Nagaland was included in this decision, given that our state has a relatively peaceful environment compared to the others. Due to the ongoing Naga political issue, Nagaland has often been categorised differently, but in reality, it has one of the lowest crime rates and is one of the safest states for women. There have been no recent conflicts between Naga groups and Indian security forces, and incidents of factional violence have ceased.

Previously, large crowds would visit Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival, with thousands attending. Last year, entry tickets were sold to 2,64,000 visitors, and the festival was conducted smoothly, without any security concerns. However, unfortunately, the problems in Manipur have indirectly affected Nagaland as well, which is why I was particularly upset by this decision.

Regarding the situation in border villages, it is important to clarify that while there were reports suggesting that the FMR has been completely scrapped, that is not the case. However, new restrictions have been introduced. Earlier, people were free to move within 16 km on both sides of the India-Myanmar border without restrictions, as many families have relatives on both sides. Some houses are even split between the two countries, with half in India and half in Myanmar. The border is largely imaginary, and many villages are located on hilltops, making natural boundaries even less distinct.

I visited the border area around March when I was an MP. I met a resident whose thatched house was destroyed. He continued to live in the damaged structure and asked for help, so I used my MP fund to build him a new house. Interestingly, the house was built on the same land, but in the middle of it runs the international border. One side of the house has the Myanmar flag, while the other has the Indian flag. This unique structure has also become a tourist attraction.

Under the new regulations, the Assam Rifles are now responsible for issuing border passes. Two officers and two assistants oversee the process. The free movement limit has been reduced from 16 km to 10 km, and anyone crossing the border cannot stay for more than 10 days. This has caused dissatisfaction among the people.

In our last Assembly session, we discussed this issue and decided that an all-party delegation should meet Home Minister Amit Shah to apprise him of our concerns. Additionally, on January 6, this year, I had a meeting where we formally requested the Government of India to review the restrictions, as the situation in Nagaland remains peaceful.

Another concern is the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirement for foreign tourists visiting Nagaland. While the Naga political issue is still under discussion, imposing PAP restrictions hinders tourism growth. Assam serves as the entry point for foreign tourists in the Northeast, and they often travel to other states from there. However, the additional restrictions on Nagaland discourage visitors. In our last meeting, we urged the Government of India to reconsider and lift the PAP requirements to boost tourism in the state.

Wasbir Hussain: Do you think the Nagaland Super League will change the face of football in Nagaland? We must not forget that the legendary Dr. Talimeren Ao was the first captain of the Indian Football Team. Whether he received the recognition he deserved is a debatable issue. Many people believe he has not received recognition. What is your take?

Neiphiu Rio: No, he did not receive the recognition. After Nagaland attained statehood in 1963, it took 41 years for the Nagaland Olympic Association to gain affiliation with the Indian Olympic Association, which only happened in 2004. This meant that for over four decades, we were not able to participate in any national games. Our first participation in the National Games only happened in 2017.

In 2004, we declared “Youth Empowerment” as a priority and started promoting music, arts, and skill development. As part of this initiative, we also sent our youth for training and skill development programs. I personally requested the then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to support training and employment opportunities for 50,000 youths. He initially agreed to support 25,000, with a promise to expand the program if successful. Unfortunately, due to the 2004 Lok Sabha elections being pre-poned, the Prime Minister lost, and with that, my plans and the expected support disappeared.

Despite the challenges, the state government continued its efforts with limited resources. I am very happy that, even though Dr. Talimeren Ao has not been given a posthumous national honour, we have taken steps to honour his legacy. We introduced the Dr. Talimeren Ao Trophy for the North East Interstate Tournament. Additionally, we have established the Dr. T Football Academy, which includes a district-level administrative block, a guest house, hostels, and training grounds. Further expansion is planned to strengthen football development in Nagaland.

Regarding the impact of the Nagaland Super League on the state’s football scene, I believe it will provide a platform for talented youth to qualify from various clubs. There was significant interest from many teams, but we wanted to set a benchmark, so seven teams were selected. I was informed that it was mandated, but since it hasn’t fully materialized yet, we expect progress by next week. Nevertheless, it is a promising beginning.

Wasbir Hussain: Assam recently hosted the Advantage Assam 2.0 business summit, which saw participation from delegations representing 70 countries. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar himself led the delegation, and top business leaders from India and abroad attended the event. The summit resulted in MoUs for investment proposals worth Rs 5 lakh crore. Many believe that even if 40% of these investments materialize, it will significantly transform Assam. While the scale may be smaller in Nagaland, are you considering a similar initiative to attract investments and drive economic growth in the state?

Neiphiu Rio: I followed the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit closely and extend my congratulations to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, his government, and the people of Assam. Hosting such a large-scale investment summit requires strong public support and the capacity to facilitate and accommodate investments, and Assam has done a commendable job.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is an active and progressive leader, and I believe he will continue to bring more opportunities to Assam, especially with elections coming up next year. We are very good friends and I appreciate his efforts. I hope Nagaland can also create a similarly conducive atmosphere for investment. There are many who are interested in investing in the state, but certain challenges continue to slow down the process.

We are not giving up hope, we will continue to pursue opportunities for growth and development. I am truly happy for Assam and the progress it is making. The positive image that Assam is building extends beyond its borders, benefiting the entire Northeast region. As neighbouring states, we also share in this growing recognition, and it inspires us to strive for similar progress.

Wasbir Hussain: You have always been an optimist. Do you see any big news coming out of Nagaland in the near future, something that could transform the state’s economic landscape? Given Nagaland’s rich culture, diverse traditions, and vibrant Naga tribes, do you believe it has the potential to become the tourism hub of the entire?

Neiphiu Rio: It is not in my control, but I remain hopeful for the best. The Naga people are talented and capable, but local issues have significantly impacted our progress. I believe that with time, good sense will prevail, and we will witness better days ahead.

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