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Northeast at a Turning Point: AFSPA Retreat and Energy Expansion Signal Major Shift

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Guwahati
  • Jun 12, 2026
  • 116

In a landmark announcement for Northeast India, Union Home Minister  (MHA) Amit Shah has said that the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, (AFSPA) is expected to be withdrawn from almost the entire Northeast region by 2027. The statement comes amid growing signs of peace, stability, and development across the region.

Speaking on Thursday, Shah emphasized that the shrinking footprint of AFSPA in the Northeast reflects the success of the government's peace-building initiatives and improved security conditions. He noted that only a few areas in one or two states may continue to remain under the Act in the coming years.

AFSPA Withdrawal Signals New Era for Northeast India

The Home Minister highlighted that the Centre's sustained efforts toward peace agreements, insurgency reduction, and infrastructure development have transformed the security landscape of Northeast India. The planned removal of AFSPA from most parts of the region is being viewed as a major milestone in the government's vision for a peaceful and prosperous Northeast.

Security experts believe that a complete or near-complete withdrawal of AFSPA would significantly boost investment, tourism, and economic activities across the eight Northeastern states.

Assam-Nagaland Oil and Gas Production to Resume

In another major development, Amit Shah announced that the Central Government, along with the governments of Assam and Nagaland, has reached a consensus to restart oil and gas exploration and production in a long-disputed border area.

The project had remained stalled for years due to unresolved territorial issues between the two neighbouring states. The new agreement is expected to unlock substantial energy resources and generate economic opportunities for the region.

Oil Output May Increase Tenfold

According to Shah, current production levels in the area range between 1,000 and 1,500 barrels of oil per day. Following the revival of operations, production capacity could increase nearly ten times, making the region an important contributor to India's energy sector.

He further disclosed that preliminary assessments suggest one of the oil and gas fields contains reserves worth more than ₹15,000 crore, underscoring the enormous economic potential of the project.

Northeast Development Gets Fresh Momentum

The twin announcements on AFSPA withdrawal and the revival of oil production are being seen as significant steps toward strengthening peace, economic growth, energy security, and regional development in Northeast India.

Political observers believe these initiatives align with the Centre's broader goal of accelerating the transformation of the Northeast into a key driver of India's growth story under the Viksit Bharat vision.

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