Kohima: The Naga Hoho has called for the revival of oil exploration and production in Nagaland, emphasizing that the state must capitalize on its rich petroleum, oil, and natural gas resources to drive economic growth.
The apex Naga body stressed the urgent need for a clear roadmap to resume oil exploration, highlighting its potential to transform the state’s economy.
In a press release issued Monday night, the Naga Hoho underscored the importance of a fair and transparent agreement between the Governments of Nagaland and Assam regarding oil exploration in the Disturbed Area Belt (DAB) along their border.
The organization insisted that any agreement must incorporate models from both states and called for an “Oil Exploration & Production” license to be jointly signed by both governments. Until such an agreement is finalized, it demanded an immediate halt to all oil-related activities in disputed areas.
The Hoho pointed out that Nagaland is part of the Assam Arakan Basin, a region with a long history of hydrocarbon occurrences, making it a viable zone for extensive oil exploration.
It recalled that petroleum exploration in the state dates back to the pre-Partition era, emphasizing the strong potential for hydrocarbon discoveries across the Naga Hills.
While encouraging the Naga people to recognize the economic benefits of oil exploration, the Hoho noted that revenues from petroleum resources could significantly boost infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment.
It argued that harnessing these resources could uplift the state’s economy, reduce dependence on external funds, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.
However, the organization also raised concerns about environmental hazards linked to oil spills since the closure of extraction operations in 1994.
It alleged that neither the government nor civil society organizations have taken steps to contain these spills, posing a serious threat to Nagaland’s ecosystem.
Reaffirming Nagaland’s exclusive rights over its land and resources under Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, the Naga Hoho urged the state government to strengthen and enforce the Nagaland Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulations, 2012.
It acknowledged that land and resource ownership issues remain complex, requiring a balanced approach to resource management.
Highlighting the substantial financial losses incurred due to the state’s failure to utilize its oil reserves, the Hoho stressed the importance of responsible and transparent resource management.
It called on all Nagas to unite in supporting an economic vision that prioritizes sustainable development and financial independence.
With debates over oil exploration in Nagaland intensifying, the Naga Hoho’s renewed demand signals growing pressure on the state government to initiate energy exploration efforts in consultation with all stakeholders.
The issue remains a key topic of political and economic discourse, with stakeholders weighing both the benefits and the challenges of oil extraction in the region.
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