Nagaland's journey is one of strength and change. From its early struggles to find its identity to becoming a state in India, the history of Nagaland is filled with challenges and successes. Over time, it grew from a land full of dreams into a thriving state, shaped by the determination and spirit of its people.
Nagaland’s Journey to Statehood
This begins in the pre-Independence era when the Naga Hills District sought autonomy within Assam. The Naga Club, formed after World War I, articulated the aspirations of the Naga people for self-determination.
In the mid-1940s, the Naga Club transformed into the Naga National Council (NNC), led by Imti Aliba Ao. The council initially advocated for autonomy within Assam, but aspirations soon shifted towards full self-determination. By August 1946, Jawaharlal Nehru expressed doubts about the viability of Naga territory as an independent entity. This set the stage for prolonged negotiations between the NNC and the Indian Government.
The Hydari Agreement, signed in June 1947 between the NNC and the Indian Government (represented by Assam Governor Sir Akbar Hydari), granted Nagas legislative, executive, and judicial powers, with a clause to review Naga autonomy after 10 years. However, differing interpretations of this agreement soon led to tensions.
Meanwhile, Zapu Phizo, an Angami leader, declared Nagaland an independent Christian republic on the eve of India’s independence. This bold move challenged the status quo and set the stage for complex negotiations. The Hydari Agreement was ultimately sidelined, and the Sixth Schedule, based on the recommendations of the Bordoloi Committee, was introduced in Nagaland. While the Sixth Schedule granted autonomy to the Naga Hills within Assam, the Nagas continued to push for complete self-determination.
With the formation of the State Reorganization Commission (SRC), the NNC’s demands for independence from Assam and India were dismissed. Nonetheless, the NNC continued to seek a separate Nagaland.
The Formation and Evolution of Nagaland’s Districts
Post the first Naga Peoples Convention in 1957, the Naga Hills–Tuensang Area was established as a new administrative unit within the state of Assam. This marked a crucial step towards the eventual statehood of Nagaland. In 1963, Nagaland officially became the 16th state of the Indian Union, with three districts: Kohima, Mokokchung, and Tuensang. These district boundaries were carefully drawn to accommodate the state's tribal communities and ensure administrative efficiency.
Over the following decades, factors such as population density and ethnic demographics led to further divisions. Zunheboto and Mon districts were formed in 1973 and 1976, respectively, while Phek district came into existence in 1973, combining parts of Kohima and Tuensang.
Over the following decades, factors such as population density and ethnic demographics led to further divisions. Zunheboto and Mon districts were formed in 1973 and 1976, respectively, while Phek district came into existence in 1973, combining parts of Kohima and Tuensang.
In 1997, Dimapur district was carved out of Kohima. Dimapur, the district headquarters, is now the commercial hub and primary gateway to Nagaland.
Further decentralization occurred in 2004 when Longleng and Kiphire districts were created from Tuensang, aimed at improving local governance. Around the same time, Peren district was carved out of Kohima. The rugged terrain and diversity of ethnic groups necessitated such localized administrative setups to enhance governance.
Today, Nagaland consists of 12 districts, each with its administrative headquarters. This process of decentralization ensures effective governance and equitable development across the state, promoting better service delivery to all communities.
Nagaland’s district evolution reflects its gradual development since its statehood in 1963.
Recent Developments
Recently, new districts have been created, including Chümoukedima and Niuland (carved out of Dimapur) and Shamator (from Tuensang). Additionally, the Tseminyü district was formed from Kohima.
Sources:
Administrative Atlas of India (2011)
"Origin Story of India’s States" - Venkataraghavan Subha Srinivasan (2020)
"We the People of the States of Bharat" - Sanjeev Chopra (2022)
District Website - Nagaland
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