List of Former Chief Ministers of Nagaland (1963-2024)

Nagaland, nestled in the northeastern region of India, has been governed by a succession of leaders who have played pivotal roles in shaping the state’s political landscape and addressing its unique challenges. As we trace the history of Nagaland’s governance, we encounter a diverse array of leaders who have navigated the complexities of regional identity, insurgency, and development. Here, we delve into the list of Chief Ministers who have steered the course of Nagaland’s journey since its inception.

Chief Ministers of Nagaland

Nagaland’s Chief Ministers have played pivotal roles in the state’s development. From P. Shilu Ao, the inaugural Chief Minister, to Neiphiu Rio, who serves currently, each leader has navigated challenges such as insurgency and socio-economic disparities. Their legacies include fostering peace, promoting infrastructure, and addressing the unique needs of Nagaland’s diverse communities, shaping the state’s trajectory over the years.

Inaugural Chief Minister of Nagaland

P. Shilu Ao, representing the Naga Nationalist Organisation, assumed office as Nagaland’s inaugural Chief Minister on December 1, 1963, serving until August 14, 1966. As the first leader of the newly formed state, Ao laid the groundwork for democratic governance, focusing on socio-economic development and fostering unity among Nagaland’s diverse communities.

Current Chief Minister of Nagaland

Neiphiu Rio, representing the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, has been serving as Nagaland’s Chief Minister since March 8, 2018. Leading the state with a focus on sustainable development and peace-building efforts, Rio’s tenure emphasizes inclusive governance and economic growth to address the unique challenges and aspirations of Nagaland’s diverse populace.

Longest Serving Chief Minister of Nagaland

Neiphiu Rio holds the distinction of being Nagaland’s longest-serving Chief Minister, having served for an unprecedented five terms. As the ninth Chief Minister of Nagaland, Rio’s enduring leadership underscores his commitment to the state’s development and governance. His tenure exemplifies stability and continuity, shaping Nagaland’s trajectory over an extended period.

Shortest Serving Chief Minister of Nagaland

John Bosco Jasokie holds the record for the shortest tenure as Chief Minister of Nagaland, serving from March 10, 1975, to March 20, 1975. Despite his brief time in office, Jasokie’s leadership during a period of political transition reflects the challenges and dynamics of Nagaland’s governance. His short-lived tenure remains notable in the state’s political history.

List of Former Chief Ministers of Nagaland

Nagaland’s Chief Ministers have played pivotal roles in the state’s development. From P. Shilu Ao, the inaugural Chief Minister, to Neiphiu Rio, who serves currently, each leader has navigated challenges such as insurgency and socio-economic disparities.

Here is the complete list of former chief ministers of Nagaland:

List of Former Chief Ministers of Nagaland
S. No.	Name	From	To
1.	P. Shilu Ao	01 Dec 1963	14 Aug 1966
2.	T. N. Angami	14 Aug 1966	22 Feb 1969
3.	Hokishe Sema	22 Feb 1969	26 Feb 1974
4.	Vizol Angami	26 Feb 1974	10 Mar 1975
5.	John Bosco Jasokie	10 Mar 1975	20 Mar 1975
6.	President’s Rule	20 Mar 1975	25 Nov 1977
7.	Vizol Angami	25 Nov 1977	18 Apr 1980
8.	S. C. Jamir	18 Apr 1980	05 Jun 1980
9.	John Bosco Jasokie	05 Jun 1980	18 Nov 1982
10.	S. C. Jamir	18 Nov 1982	28 Oct 1986
11.	Hokishe Sema	29 Oct 1986	07 Aug 1988
12.	President’s Rule	07 Aug 1988	25 Jan 1989
13.	S. C. Jamir	25 Jan 1989	10 May 1990
14.	K. L. Chishi	16 May 1990	19 Jun 1990
15.	Vamuzo Phesao	19 Jun 1990	02 Apr 1992
16.	President’s Rule	02 Apr 1992	22 Feb 1993
17.	S. C. Jamir	22 Feb 1993	06 Mar 2003
18.	Neiphiu Rio	06 Mar 2003	03 Jan 2008
19.	President’s Rule	03 Jan 2008	12 Mar 2008
20.	Neiphiu Rio	12 Mar 2008	24 May 2014
21.	T. R. Zeliang	24 May 2014	22 Feb 2017
22.	Shurhozelie Liezietsu	22 Feb 2017	19 Jul 2017
23.	T. R. Zeliang	19 Jul 2017	08 Mar 2018
24.	Neiphiu Rio	08 Mar 2018	Incumbent