The first phase of Budget Session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly commenced today with the House opening for the first time with the National Song – Vande Mataram followed by the National Anthem-Jana Gana Mana. Delivering his maiden address, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla outlined the State Government’s vision of becoming an active partner in the national journey towards Vikshit Bharat 2047. He said the Government aspires to transform Nagaland into a developed state by 2047, leveraging its unique strengths while ensuring inclusive growth.

The Governor reaffirmed commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Naga Political Issue. He described the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority as a historic step towards equitable development in Eastern Nagaland. He informed that the Interim Council will be constituted in consultation with Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ and Tribal Hohos, adding that a special legislation will soon be introduced in coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs. Highlighting the upcoming Census, he said, that the first phase in Nagaland will be conducted from July 1 to 30, 2026, with self-enumeration to begin from June 16.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Speaker Sharingain Longkumer made obituary references to departed NLA members including Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ajit Anantrao Pawar.