In his concluding remarks on the Motion of Thanks, led by Imkong L. Imchen, the Nagaland Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the members for their active participation and addressed several critical issues on the state government’s agenda. These included the unresolved Naga political issue, challenges in the education sector, and ongoing development projects.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of integrating Naga-inhabited areas as per the 16-Point Agreement, calling for thorough discussions either in the assembly, through parliamentary committees, or a political affairs committee. He acknowledged the lack of clarity in the government’s approach to integration and noted that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) had passed eight resolutions on this matter since December 12, 1962, with the latest on August 3, 2021.
Expressing concern over the prolonged delay in resolving the Naga political issue, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to consultations with civil society organizations (CSOs), tribal hohos, and prominent leaders, including former parliamentarians. He urged the Government of India to demonstrate sincerity in addressing the issue and announced plans to meet the Centre’s interlocutor, A.K. Mishra, along with his cabinet colleagues. He also expressed his intention to meet the Union Home Minister after consulting Naga national groups, stressing the need for a swift, honorable, inclusive, and acceptable resolution.
On the long-pending Foothill Road project, also known as the Trans-Nagaland Highway, the Chief Minister assured the Assembly that the government would work closely with the concerned department and minister to address stakeholders’ demands.
Responding to demands for changes in the state’s reservation policy, the Chief Minister reiterated that any review will occur only after an accurate and comprehensive census. He suggested that future reservations should be based on economic status and educational backwardness rather than tribal affiliations.
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The Chief Minister praised the Department of Health and Family Welfare for initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) and Dr. Ato’s mobile operation theatre, which provides critical healthcare services in remote areas free of cost.
He also celebrated the achievements of Nagaland’s sportspersons, including Paralympic bronze medalist Hokato Hotozhe, who was honored with Rs. 1.5 crore. He recalled the legacy of Dr. T. Ao, the first captain of independent India’s football team, and urged Naga youth to pursue sports with discipline and dedication.
Highlighting recent initiatives, the Chief Minister announced plans to host the Asia Belt Wrestling Championship, showcasing Naga wrestling. He also noted the growing popularity of the Nagaland Super League (NSL), launched on January 28, 2025, in Chümoukedima, and encouraged public support for the league. He assured that astroturf football grounds would be developed in all districts within the next two years.
The Chief Minister revealed that the Government of India has identified Nagaland as a state rich in critical and rare earth minerals, including oil, natural gas, nickel, and lithium. He assured that the state government would soon initiate discussions with the Centre to harness these resources, which could generate significant revenue.
Acknowledging the state’s financial constraints, the Chief Minister noted that Nagaland relies heavily on revenue grants exceeding Rs. 10,000 crore. However, he highlighted a positive increase in internal revenue, which had risen to 13%. He expressed optimism that collaborative efforts and the support of the opposition-less government would help address challenges and achieve greater development.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister thanked the assembly for their suggestions and assured that all concerns raised will be addressed in due course.
