Background of the FNTA Agreement
Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority: The Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) was established through a historic tripartite agreement involving the Government of India, the Government of Nagaland, and representatives of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO). This agreement aims to address long-standing demands for administrative empowerment and balanced regional development in eastern Nagaland.
The ENPO functions as an apex body representing eight recognised Naga tribes, namely Konyak, Sangtam, Chang, Khiamniungan, Yimkhiung, Tikhir, Phom, and Sumi. These tribes primarily inhabit the eastern part of the state, which has historically lagged behind in infrastructure and governance outreach.
Static GK fact: Nagaland became the 16th state of India in 1963, carved out of the former Naga Hills district of Assam.
Districts Covered under FNTA
The FNTA jurisdiction extends over six eastern districts of Nagaland. These include Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak, and Shamator.
These districts together form a geographically remote and socio-economically distinct region. The creation of FNTA seeks to ensure focused governance tailored to local needs.
Static GK Tip: Tuensang district was once administered directly by the Governor under special arrangements before full integration into the state system.
Key Provisions of the FNTA Framework
A major feature of FNTA is the devolution of powers over 46 subjects from the state government. These subjects relate to key areas of governance, development planning, and service delivery.
The institutional structure includes a Mini-Secretariat, which will function as the administrative hub. This Secretariat will be headed by an Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary-level officer.
Such an arrangement ensures coordination between the state government and the FNTA authority. It also provides administrative continuity without creating a parallel state structure.
Significance of the FNTA Arrangement
The FNTA is expected to promote overall development through financial autonomy and enhanced decision-making powers. Local authorities will be better positioned to plan and implement region-specific projects.
Greater fiscal and administrative control is intended to reduce regional disparities within Nagaland. The model reflects a cooperative approach rather than a confrontational restructuring.
Static GK fact: Decentralised governance mechanisms are often used in India to address regional aspirations without altering state boundaries.
Constitutional Safeguards and Article 371(A)
A critical assurance under the FNTA agreement is that it does not affect Article 371(A) of the Constitution. This Article provides special provisions to Nagaland regarding customary law, land ownership, and social practices.
The protection of Article 371(A) ensures that the unique constitutional status of Nagaland remains intact. Thus, FNTA operates within the existing constitutional framework.
Static GK Tip: Article 371(A) restricts Parliament from applying laws on Naga customary matters without state assembly approval.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority:
| Topic | Detail |
| FNTA Full Form | Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority |
| Agreement Parties | Government of India, Government of Nagaland, ENPO |
| Districts Covered | Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak, Shamator |
| Tribal Representation | Eight recognised Naga tribes |
| Powers Devolved | 46 subjects |
| Administrative Setup | Mini-Secretariat |
| Head of Secretariat | Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary |
| Constitutional Impact | Article 371(A) remains unaffected |
| Objective | Regional development and administrative autonomy |
