Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has called for an honourable, inclusive and acceptable solution to the decades-old Naga political issue, urging all negotiating parties to demonstrate sincerity and flexibility to fulfil the aspirations of the Naga people. Addressing the 64th Foundation Day celebration of the ruling Naga People’s Front (NPF) in Kohima on October 21, 2026, Rio reiterated that resolving the political issue remains a central priority for the state and its people.
He emphasised that lasting peace is essential for Nagaland’s development, economic growth, investment and employment generation. Rio also called on different sections of Naga society to set aside their differences and work collectively towards a peaceful settlement.
Rio Urges Negotiating Parties to Show Sincerity
Speaking at the party’s foundation day programme, Rio said the Naga political issue remained closely connected with the history, identity and aspirations of the Naga people. He urged all parties involved in the peace process to approach negotiations with sincerity, understanding and a willingness to accommodate differing positions.
The Chief Minister stressed that an acceptable settlement must reflect the aspirations of the Naga people while creating conditions for lasting stability. He appealed to the negotiating parties to overcome their differences and move the peace process towards a meaningful conclusion.
Rio reiterated that peace should remain the foundation of the state’s future. Without a lasting political settlement, he indicated, the full potential of Nagaland’s development and economic progress would remain difficult to achieve.
Nagaland Government to Continue Facilitating Peace Talks
Although the Naga People’s Front is not a negotiating party in the ongoing dialogue between the Centre and Naga political groups, Rio said the state government has an important role in facilitating the peace process.
He stated that the Nagaland government would continue working with the Government of India and other stakeholders to bring the negotiating parties closer, bridge differences and create a favourable atmosphere for dialogue.
Rio also expressed the government’s commitment to helping the peace process reach its logical conclusion. The state’s facilitation role, he suggested, remains important in building trust and encouraging constructive engagement among the parties involved.
The Naga political issue has remained unresolved for decades, with negotiations involving the Centre and different Naga political groups seeking a settlement that addresses competing demands and aspirations.
Appeal for Unity Among Naga Communities
Rio called on tribal bodies, civil society organisations, churches, student organisations, women, youth and political parties to work together towards a common objective.
He emphasised that individual and organisational differences should not overshadow the larger interests of the Naga people. According to him, collective participation and mutual understanding are essential to creating an environment in which a political settlement can be achieved.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of unity in preparing the next generation for a more stable future. He expressed his vision of a united Naga community where young people have greater confidence in their prospects and villages and towns can develop alongside the preservation of cultural identity and heritage.
Development Must Continue Alongside the Peace Process
While reiterating the need for a political settlement, Rio maintained that development cannot remain on hold until the negotiations are concluded.
He said the government would continue focusing on education, healthcare, employment, entrepreneurship, rural livelihoods and infrastructure. These areas, he indicated, are essential for improving living standards and expanding opportunities for people across Nagaland.
Rio referred to initiatives such as the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Scheme, the Nagaland Startup Policy, the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme and the Nagaland Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Mission. These programmes are intended to support economic activity, healthcare access, entrepreneurship and skill development.
The Chief Minister’s remarks highlighted the importance of pursuing economic progress while continuing efforts to resolve the long-standing political issue.
Rio Expresses Concern Over the Situation in Manipur
During his address, Rio also expressed concern over the continuing suffering caused by violence and displacement in neighbouring Manipur. He conveyed solidarity with affected families and communities, referring to the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of villages.
He called for reconciliation, restoration of trust and lasting peace, emphasising the shared responsibility of communities to support those experiencing hardship.
His remarks underlined the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding in addressing conflicts and rebuilding relationships between communities.
A Renewed Push for Lasting Peace in Nagaland
Rio’s appeal at the NPF’s 64th Foundation Day renewed the focus on finding a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the Naga political issue. His message combined a call for progress in negotiations with an emphasis on unity, public welfare and continued economic development.
The challenge remains to bring the negotiating parties towards a settlement that is acceptable to the stakeholders while addressing the aspirations of the Naga people.
For Nagaland, a lasting solution could provide a stronger foundation for stability, investment and employment opportunities. Rio’s appeal therefore places responsibility not only on the negotiating parties but also on political leaders, civil society organisations and communities to contribute towards a shared future built on peace, dignity and development.