Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day Dominated by Renewed Push for Final Naga Political Settlement
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Kohima
- Dec 01, 2025
- 528
Nagaland commemorated its 63rd Statehood Day on December 1, marked by a strong and unequivocal call from the state government for an expedited resolution to the protracted Naga political issue. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, addressing the gathering at Secretariat Plaza in Kohima, urged all Naga political groups, stakeholders, and the Government of India to “appreciate the pressing urgency” of concluding negotiations that have spanned decades.
Reaffirming the government’s stance for an “honourable and inclusive settlement,” Rio recalled that the Political Affairs Committee—during its meeting on September 1, 2025—had unanimously endorsed the Ungma Statement of August 23, which called for the unification of all Naga groups on a common political platform. He added that the broad-based consultative meeting of September 12, 2024, had already recommended that New Delhi elevate the dialogue to the highest political level.
Focus on Eastern Nagaland
Acknowledging long-standing regional concerns, Rio addressed the aspirations of Eastern Nagaland, particularly demands for a Frontier Nagaland Territory Area arrangement. Following tripartite talks involving the Centre, state government, and ENPO in September 2025, officials expressed optimism about a forthcoming resolution.
Hornbill Festival Expands International Footprint
The celebrations highlighted Nagaland's cultural diplomacy as the 26th Hornbill Festival is set to witness its highest-ever global participation, with Austria, Malta, Switzerland, Ireland, France, and the United Kingdom joining as partner countries. Arunachal Pradesh will participate as the state partner. Dedicated roundtable sessions will explore cooperation in investment, culture, agriculture, sports, and education.
Youth Infrastructure and Sports Push
Significant youth development initiatives were announced, including 31 sanctioned indoor stadiums, 28 futsal grounds, and a district sports fund of ₹23 lakh per assembly constituency beginning 2025–26. Nagaland will host the Asian Women’s Sepak Takraw Championship 2026, having recently conducted the 69th National School Games Taekwondo Championship.
Advances in Higher Education and Technology
The state expanded its academic capacity with 129 new assistant professor posts and the approval of four new Model Degree Colleges in Niuland, Shamator, Noklak, and Tseminyu. Cutting-edge initiatives such as an Intel-backed AI lab at ICIT Mokokchung, the Nagaland Innovation Hub for Startups at Chumoukedima, and the SAMARTH and AI & Future Skills Centre of Excellence were also unveiled.
Major Infrastructure and Connectivity Projects
Key infrastructure announcements included four strategic landing strips proposed for Kohima, Mokokchung, Mon, and Tuensang. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has identified Noune, Shilloi, and Doyang Lake as inland waterway corridors to boost tourism and water sports.
Upgrades in the power sector include raising the capacity of the Nagarjan Substation to 350 MVA and construction of a 220/132/33 kV substation at Tsitrongse.
Healthcare and Agriculture Gains
Nagaland has recorded zero malaria cases across seven districts. A 400-bed hospital at NIMSR, Kohima, is under development with JICA support. In agriculture, the state’s coffee sector is gaining national attention, with exports reaching South Africa, the EU, and the Middle East. The 219th Coffee Board of India meeting—held in Kohima for the first time in the northeast—marked a milestone.
Appeal for Removal of PAP Regime
Hailing Nagaland as the “most peaceful state in the country” with no major security challenges, Rio welcomed the Centre’s relaxation of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime for the Hornbill Festival. He urged its complete withdrawal to boost tourism and foreign engagement.
Cultural and Social Initiatives
The celebrations also included virtual inauguration of 120 children and adolescent libraries, release of books documenting traditional attire of 10 indigenous tribes, distribution of tablets to accredited journalists, and a special photo exhibition — Journey of Nagaland Down the Decades — showcasing the state’s evolution from pre-statehood days to the present.