Who is the Founder of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party?

The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) is a significant political entity in the northeastern state of Nagaland, India. Founded with the vision of promoting the welfare and development of the Naga people, the party has emerged as a crucial player in Nagaland’s political landscape. To understand the origins and driving force behind the NDPP, we must delve into the life of its founder, the visionary leader who gave life to this influential party.

The founder of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party is Neiphiu Rio, a seasoned politician and a stalwart figure in Nagaland’s political arena. Born on November 11, 1950, in the picturesque village of Tuophema, he hails from a respected Naga family with a history of public service.

Neiphiu Rio began his political journey in the early 1980s when he was elected as a member of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) for the first time. Over the years, he proved his mettle as a leader with a deep commitment to the welfare of the Naga people and the development of the state.

In 2002, Neiphiu Rio played a crucial role in the formation of the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN), a coalition of regional parties that came together to address the issues facing the state collectively. Under his leadership, the DAN secured a landslide victory in the state elections, and Neiphiu Rio assumed the role of Nagaland’s Chief Minister for the first time.

However, it was in 2018 that Neiphiu Rio made history by founding the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party. This move came after he and several other leaders from the Naga People’s Front (NPF) left the party to form the NDPP. The primary objective behind establishing the NDPP was to provide a platform for like-minded leaders who believed in the principles of regional development and the preservation of Naga identity.

In the 2018 Nagaland Legislative Assembly elections, the NDPP joined hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and emerged as the leading coalition, securing a majority of seats. Once again, Neiphiu Rio assumed the office of the Chief Minister, reaffirming his popularity and influence among the people of Nagaland.

The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, under Neiphiu Rio’s guidance, has been steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace, development, and inclusive growth in Nagaland. The party has actively advocated for resolving the long-standing Naga political issue through dialogue and negotiations with the Indian government.

Over the years, Neiphiu Rio’s leadership and dedication to public service have earned him widespread respect and admiration, not just within Nagaland but also across political circles in India. His vision for a prosperous and united Nagaland remains the guiding force behind the NDPP’s endeavors.

Neiphiu Rio, the visionary founder of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, has been instrumental in shaping Nagaland’s political landscape. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Naga people, coupled with his astute leadership, has solidified the NDPP’s position as a significant political force in the state. As Nagaland marches ahead on the path of development and progress, Neiphiu Rio’s legacy continues to inspire and drive the party and its vision for a better and stronger Nagaland.