KOHIMA, Feb 27: Amid ongoing Indo-Naga political dialogue, the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) has called for the unification of all Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) to work towards a negotiated and honorable political settlement. The party also urged the Government of India to expedite the resolution of the issue in a manner that is inclusive, acceptable, and reflective of Naga history and aspirations.
The call was made during the 5th General Convention of the NDPP held in Kohima on Thursday. The convention reaffirmed the party’s commitment to the Naga political movement and acknowledged the contributions of past and present Naga political leaders in shaping the aspirations of the Naga people for peace, recognition, and honor. The NDPP emphasized the importance of defending and protecting the political rights and history of the Naga people, citing significant historical milestones, such as the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, the Representation to the Simon Commission in 1929, the Plebiscite of 1951, the Framework Agreement of 2015, and the Agreed Position of 2017. The party stressed that these milestones affirm the unique political history of the Naga people.
The NDPP also expressed concern over the abolition of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the ongoing construction of a border fence along the Indo-Myanmar border. The party urged the Government of India to reconsider these decisions, asserting that Nagas have traditionally moved freely across the border and that removing the FMR could disrupt long-standing traditions, escalate tensions, and hinder peace negotiations.
On the economic front, the NDPP highlighted Nagaland’s potential to become a major economic hub under India’s “Act East Policy,” serving as a gateway to ASEAN nations. The party called for investments in areas such as entrepreneurship, information technology, artificial intelligence, incubation facilities, energy, agriculture, and sustainability to boost employment and economic growth in the state. Additionally, the NDPP urged the revocation of the Protected/Restricted Area Permit (PAP/RAP) regime, citing its negative impact on tourism and industrial development.
The NDPP also called for the modernization of agriculture, proposing a shift from subsistence farming to large-scale production using advanced technology. The party suggested policies to foster collaborations, technology transfers, blockchain integration, value addition, and organic farming to enhance the agricultural sector’s productivity and sustainability.
In terms of youth empowerment, the NDPP emphasized the importance of initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Scholarship for Music & Arts, the Dr. T. Ao State Sports Awards, and the Chief Minister’s Meritorious Students Scholarships. The party commended the success of the 25th Hornbill Festival, which it believes has played a significant role in globalizing Nagaland’s tourism potential.
The NDPP reiterated its commitment to facilitating a lasting Indo-Naga political settlement that would ensure peace, progress, and economic stability for Nagaland. The party called on all stakeholders to work together to reach a resolution that upholds the rights and aspirations of the Naga people.
