A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Mineral Oil Operations in the Assam-Nagaland border areas was signed in New Delhi between the Government of India, the Government of Assam and the Government of Nagaland, in the presence of Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio were present. The MoU establishes a coordinated framework for petroleum exploration and production in the identified Area of Interest, ensuring operational continuity, security of personnel and assets, and effective coordination among stakeholders. Shah described the accord as a leading example of cooperative federalism, noting that for long the absence of such an agreement and related challenges had affected the economic development of both states. He said the present extraction capacity of 1,000-1,500 barrels per day could grow more than tenfold, and that exploration is possible across Nagaland beyond the existing six fields, helping reduce India's dependence on foreign sources for oil and gas. On peace and security, Shah noted that since 2019 a total of 12 agreements have been signed in the Northeast, reducing violence by around 80 percent. He said more than 80 percent of the Northeast is now free of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), expressing confidence that, barring one or two states, AFSPA would be removed from the entire region next year. He added that over 50 percent of border disputes have been resolved, calling it an important step towards a golden future for the Northeast and a stronger, self-reliant India.