Kohima: Assam and Nagaland officials signed a deal on June 11, 2026, to manage oil exploration across their shared border. The states will split revenues equally. They also agreed to share joint governance duties for six designated sectors.
The deal shifts a heavy burden onto local leaders. Both states must now control interactions with tribal bodies and village councils. The text of the agreement states: "The States shall deal with activities of local Civil Society Organizations, tribal bodies, village councils, etc. in connection with the operations."
Operations must stay safe. Both governments pledged to protect company equipment, infrastructure, and staff. They will grant all needed licenses and permits to keep work moving without interference. Projects must follow the Oilfields Regulation and Development Act of 1948.
The agreement covers only the new designated sectors. Existing contracts and rights outside these zones remain unchanged. The deal does not impact the ongoing Supreme Court boundary dispute between the two states. Assam lawmakers reviewed the document during a legislative session on July 8.
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