Nagaland seeks restart of petroleum exploration as Rio discusses plans with Hardeep Puri

The prospect of resuming oil exploration in Nagaland has faced historical opposition. In 2015, the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) reiterated its stance against the central government's efforts to explore petroleum, asserting that such natural resources constitute the state's sovereign wealth. The group has previously accused the Indian government of attempting to exploit Nagaland's mineral wealth without respecting the political rights of its people.

Oil India Limited (OIL) has indicated plans to commence exploration in Nagaland once the conditions become conducive. The company has identified a significant area of 3000 square kilometers within the state for potential exploration activities. Previously, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) had ceased its exploration and production operations in Nagaland in 1994 following opposition from the NSCN (IM).