The second day of the 8th session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly, held at NLA Hall, Kohima on March 3, saw the active participation of the elected members in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the Governor’s Address.
MLA, Küzholuzo Nienu, taking part in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the Governor’s Address, called for unity, constructive criticism and collective responsibility. He also, congratulated the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) on signing the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Government of India for the constitution of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), he expressed hope that the agreement would usher in peace, unity and accelerated development in the Eastern Nagaland region.
Highlighting the Education sector, Nienu, acknowledged improvements but raised concerns over teacher rationalization and staff shortages in certain schools. He called for a transparent and comprehensive transfer policy to ensure proper distribution of teachers and quality education across districts. Appreciating the Home Department and the Police, he commended their efforts in curbing drug trafficking, illegal taxation, extortion and kidnapping. He noted that strict measures and coordinated actions have brought visible improvements in some districts.
However, he stressed the need for sustained efforts and urged that officers performing effectively be given adequate tenure to maintain continuity and stability in administration. Nienu reaffirmed his support for the Government and called upon all members to work together to ensure lasting peace, development and economic progress in the State.
Participating in the Motion of Thanks on the Governor’s Address, Minister, Temjen Imna Along congratulated the Department of Youth Resources & Sports for formulating and implementing robust policies aimed at encouraging young people to pursue sports as a professional career. He noted that such initiatives are instrumental in nurturing talent, creating structured opportunities, and promoting a culture of excellence among the youth of the State.
Speaking on tourism, he highlighted that through the iconic Hornbill Festival, Nagaland has gained significant visibility not only across the country but also at the international level. He further stated that the extension of the festival to various districts has strengthened grassroots participation, while upholding and showcasing the rich traditions, culture, and music of the Naga people, thereby reinforcing the State’s cultural identity alongside its tourism growth.
MLA, Dr. Neisatuo Mero participating on the Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address stated that the address reflected the achievements, commitments and progress made by various departments of the State Government. Expressing his appreciation to the Government of Nagaland, he said the State continues to move forward in various sectors with focus and determination. On the Naga political issue, he welcomed the continued efforts of the State Government, led by the Chief Minister as Chairman of the Political Affairs Committee, to facilitate an early and amicable solution.
Highlighting the importance of agriculture and horticulture, Mero noted that these sectors remain the backbone of the rural economy. He pointed out that many traditional terraces and farmlands have been neglected due to migration to urban areas and suggested revival through cultivation of cash crops. He encouraged the departments concerned to intensify efforts to promote large-scale production and explore export opportunities. In health sector, he acknowledged improvements in infrastructure, diagnostic facilities and modern equipment in government hospitals. He, however, stressed the need for balanced manpower distribution, particularly in Primary Health Centres. Recalling the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, he appreciated the dedication of doctors and health workers and called for strengthening the healthcare delivery system across the State.
On employment, Mero referred to recent survey findings indicating a high literacy rate but persistent unemployment challenges. He emphasized the need for targeted interventions in skill development, vocational training and job creation to bridge the gap between education and employability. He urged concerned departments to continue initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and self-reliance among youth.
MLA, Ar. Jwenga, while participating in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address during the Assembly Session, appreciated the state government’s progress despite resource constraints. He said Nagaland is steadily advancing towards Viksit Bharat @2047 and Viksit Nagaland @2047 under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
He congratulated the people of Eastern Nagaland on the signing of the MoA for the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), stating that the interim council should serve as a unifying force. At the same time, he urged the government to address developmental disparities in central Nagaland through targeted programmes for economically disadvantaged sections.
Jwenga lauded the proposed Nagaland Innovation Hub at Chumoukedima and the AI Data Labs under the India AI Mission, saying such initiatives would prepare the youths for emerging job markets. He also appreciated the Home Department’s efforts in strengthening cybercrime mechanisms but called for a thorough probe into an alleged mishandling of a mobile phone theft case, stating that accountability was essential to maintain public trust.
On the issue of singing “Vande Mataram” as a prelude to the National Anthem, he expressed opposition, citing concerns over religious conscience in a predominantly Christian state. While affirming respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the principle of inclusive governance, he said patriotism must remain inclusive and constitutional, emphasizing that India’s strength lies in its secular fabric and reiterated that Nagaland’s patriotism is demonstrated through respect for the Tricolour and the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
Participating in the Motion of Thanks on the Governor’s Address, MLA, Achumbemo Kikon appreciated the establishment of the Drone School inaugurated by the Chief Minister. The institution, developed by the Nagaland GIS and Remote Sensing Centre, was praised as a progressive initiative that would generate new opportunities and promote skill development among the youth of the State.
He also commended the Government for taking up the Foothill Road project and for formulating a specific policy for the exploration and production of petroleum and natural gas in Nagaland, stating that such measures would contribute significantly to the State’s economic growth and infrastructure development.
At the same time, he urged the House to send a strong and a clear cut message to the Central Government regarding the persistent racial discrimination and abuse faced by people from the North East in mainland India. He stressed that incidents of racial profiling, physical and verbal harassment continue to deeply affect citizens from the region, undermining their dignity, sense of belonging, and constitutional rights. He called for stronger legal safeguards, greater awareness, and concrete measures to ensure that such acts of racism are addressed firmly and decisively.
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Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA, endorsed the government’s initiatives on the Naga political issue, the Foothill Naga Territorial Administration, infrastructure, human resource development, sports, and agriculture. He raised concern over the compulsory singing of “Vande Mataram” following Ministry of Home Affairs notification. While acknowledging the song’s historical importance, he said making it mandatory in Nagaland raised constitutional and religious concerns in a predominantly Christian state.
Dr. Rhutso noted that only the first two stanzas of the song, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in the novel Anandamath, were adopted as the National Song in 1950. He also referred to a 1986 Supreme Court observation that singing “Vande Mataram” is not compulsory and that compelling it could infringe upon the freedom of religion under Article 25(1). In the context of Nagaland, he said Article 371A provides constitutional safeguards for religious and customary practices, and any directive must respect the state’s unique identity.
Dr. Rhutso maintained that refusing to sing the song does not undermine the Constitution or the sovereignty and integrity of India, asserting that patriotism is demonstrated through loyalty, service, and respect for constitutional values. He urged the government to review the directive in consultation with the House to ensure that national unity remains inclusive and respectful of conscience.
Advisor TN Mannen addressed the House and highlighted the political developments concerning the Frontier Naga Territorial Authority (FNTA). He described the recent development regarding FNTA as a welcome step that could help alleviate long-standing negotiation issues. However, he cautioned that beyond the celebration, the core issues of power-sharing and fund allocation must be carefully addressed. He emphasised that the funds must be utilised properly and responsibly.
Mannen added that the fulfilment of the aspirations of FNTA would largely depend on the quality of leadership. ENPO, he said, would receive more funds, and in the next ten years, the leaders are expected to bring overall development and ensure socio-economic justice for all.
Participating in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address, MLA Lima Onen Chang expressed appreciation to the government for responding to the aspirations of the people of Eastern Nagaland by signing the Memorandum of Agreement (MoU) for the constitution of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority.
MLA, P Longon also welcomed the establishment of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority. While acknowledging the significance of the move, he emphasized the importance of its proper and effective implementation. He noted that a lot of works are still required to ensure the successful execution of the agreement.
The Motion of Thanks on the Governor’s Address was moved by MLA, Kuzholuzo Nienu and seconded by Advisor, Tovihoto Ayemi and MLA, Nuklutoshi on the floor of the August House on 2nd March 2026.
