Thousands gathered at Noklak public ground on February 9  to celebrate the reception and Thanksgiving for the successful signing of Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority (FNTA). The celebration was jointly organised by Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC) and Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO).  The public, in a sign of expressing gratitude, displayed placards  towards the Government of Nagaland, Ministry of Home Affairs, and ENPO for long life.

“It is a shared success of all the Eastern people, attained after a prolonged patience, prayers, struggles and challenges to the extent of making a difficult decision of abstaining elections,” said L.Ngon, President, Khiamniungan Tribal Council.  Expressing regret over the pioneers who passed away, Ngon paid gratitude for their sacrifices and contribution in making FNTA a success.

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P.Pongom, Study and Recommendation committee, ENPO, shared the background and history of statehood demand which was the initial demand.  He informed that the year 1996 set a footprint when the initiative was earlier called Tuensang and Mon Peoples’ Organization (TMPO). Pongom emphasized that the history created is not the end but a beginning where many challenges lies ahead. He also informed that the the development and budget session will be based on the population of the area.

While highlighting the structure of FNTA, Pakhiu Khiamniungan, Vice President, ENPO, explained that the governor shall give report every year on the financial position. He also mentioned on setting up of Joint Monetary committee including ENPO, State Government and the MHA. Further, the financial budget for the FNTA will be maintained seperately. Pakhiu also informed that the affairs of Village Guard (VG) will be managed between FNTA and MHA which will require the setting up of an interim body.