CNI News

May 26, 2026

The Naga Self-Administered Zone in Sagaing Region, Myanmar, is falling behind in its education sector due to difficult transportation and poor infrastructure, U Chit Yaung, Chairman of the United Tangshang Naga Council, told CNI News.

He mentioned that there is also an insufficient number of teachers in the Naga region. For the teachers assigned to serve there, going to the Naga area feels like a major burden, and the arduous travel conditions have become a source of dread for them.

U Chit Yaung said: "Currently, all-round development is needed for the Naga region to prosper. However, the most critical factor is having good transportation. Even if people say there are roads, we need to address whether these roads can actually be used at any time. Therefore, leaders and administrative authorities at all levels need to thoroughly understand and implement transportation solutions suited to this region. If transportation improves, teachers and health workers assigned to serve in the Naga region will no longer hesitate to go. They will come as soon as they are assigned. If the education and healthcare sectors can operate smoothly, there will be better outcomes for the public. The education sector, in particular, is the most challenging in the Naga region. Because of poor transportation, some staff members who have been there once never want to return. Education is lagging behind significantly. In many rural areas, schools could not even open. Consequently, this generation will continue to face major hardships."

Students from the Naga region.

It is reported that many border and mountainous areas in Myanmar face similar issues, including teacher shortages, schools repeatedly opening and closing, and a lack of school buildings and educational supplies.

Nevertheless, authorities are striving to ensure that every school-aged child has access to basic education, to reduce school dropout rates, and to encourage students to at least attend and complete middle school.

U Mazoe Laung Wee, a member of the Pyithu Hluttaw (House of Representatives) from the Naga National Party (NNP), stated that while around 3,000 teachers are needed for the current school opening season in the Naga region, only about 1,000 are currently available.

U Chit Yaung, Chairman of the United Tangshang Naga Council, reiterated to CNI News that the education and healthcare sectors can only function at their best if transportation infrastructure is improved.

He said: "Everyone knows about the transportation situation. Furthermore, the roads are currently only at the gravel stage, which causes significant difficulties. Since it's a mountainous region, when it rains, water pools on these gravel roads, and the heavy rushing water causes road washouts and sweeps away the stones, making travel very difficult. It has been raining heavily this year, so people are really suffering. Regardless, our civil society organizations will cooperate with all groups. Now that the parliament has emerged, members of parliament are constantly focusing on the transportation issue. Education and healthcare can only function optimally if transportation is good. That is why transportation interconnects with everything else."

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing arriving in the Naga region on February 26, 2026.

Although education in the Naga Self-Administered Zone (Leshi, Lahe, and Nanyun) has lagged behind due to its remoteness and difficult access, it is learnt that the government and local residents are collaborating to promote KG+9 basic education and vocational training.

However, local residents noted that teacher shortages and high dropout rates remain a challenge, and efforts are being made to develop human resources through technology and agricultural/livestock training programs.

President U Min Aung Hlaing, during his visit to the Naga region last year, stated that the necessary support would be provided for the stability, peace, and development of the area.

In Myanmar, school enrollment for the 2026–2027 academic year is currently being accepted from May 25 to May 30, 2026, and basic education schools are scheduled to open on June 1.

CNI News

May 26, 2026

Given the current situation in Myanmar, the country must exercise caution regarding all regions connected to China and India, the two superpowers among its neighbors, said Pu Pu Htan, spokesperson for the Zomi National Party (ZNP), in an interview with CNI News.

He noted that if China exerts influence over Myanmar, India will follow suit.

Pu Pu Htan said: "Among our neighbors, China and India are the largest. I believe we must be careful with all regions connected to China and India. Their influence is terrifying. While India's influence might not be as pronounced initially, if China expands its influence, India will surely do the same. India will step in as much as China does. Therefore, we need to be cautious about the regions bordering China and India. The respective ethnic regions and the Union Government need to negotiate, reconcile, and work hand in hand to protect the country. It will only work if both sides coordinate and cooperate; one side alone cannot protect it successfully."

The regions in Myanmar that share borders with China and India include Shan, Kachin, Chin, and Rakhine States, as well as the Sagaing Region.

Leaders of Myanmar, India, and China.

Among these areas, the most vulnerable locations at risk of territorial encroachment and falling under foreign dominance are Buthidaung and Maungdaw in Rakhine State, and northern Shan State, political analyst Dr. M Kawn La told CNI News.

He stated: "The reason is that in our country, there are actually only two places facing the highest risk of territorial encroachment and foreign dominance: Buthidaung and Maungdaw in Rakhine State, and northern Shan State. Currently, the tension is identical in both locations. In my view, this issue is more critical than any other. Otherwise, parts of our territory will break away. While the situation in Buthidaung and Maungdaw is somewhat contained, northern Shan State appears to be breaking away rapidly. Although the reopening of trade routes and the implementation of the BRI (Belt and Road Initiative)—with the MNDAA acting somewhat like a security guard force—might be deemed beneficial for the government, our territorial integrity and national identity are deteriorating day by day. To put it bluntly, the current situation in northern Shan State is now even more critical than the Bengali issue on the other side."

Military and political analysts told CNI News that while the entire country is in turmoil, there are specific states that need to be prioritized and resolved through political, military, and diplomatic means.

Among the current ethnic armed organizations, military and political analysts consider the armed forces from Rakhine, Kachin, Shan, and Karen States to be the most powerful.

Shan State is home to various diverse ethnic groups, and according to the current landscape, it is the most complex and critical region, Dr. Aye Maung, Chairman of the Arakan Front Party (AFP), told CNI News.

A map of Myanmar.

He explained: "Shan State is the most complex. There are diverse ethnic groups and many different political 'colors' (factions). Rakhine, however, doesn't have many colors; it is just black and white. It is not multi-colored. After Shan State, the next most complex would be Karen State, given its vastness. Mon State is also interconnected with it. There are also various PDFs. Even within the Karen forces, they are divided into multiple factions. Karen and Karenni states are also interconnected and based near Thailand. Rakhine is the most straightforward among all these territories. One side is white, the other is black. If it is a win-win situation, negotiations must take place. If it is a win-lose situation, this problem will only end when one side wins. One side must lose, and the other must win; otherwise, it won't end. If we want a win-win outcome, both sides must meet, discuss, and find a solution centered around the public. Shan State has too many colors. As for Chin State, no matter how large the population is, the armed conflict is not that severe."

Military and political analysts assess that the stances of China and India toward Myanmar are fundamentally based on their own national interests, geopolitical competition, and border stability.

They pointed out that China's primary objective is to gain access to the Indian Ocean and secure economic benefits, while India's objective is to secure its northeastern border and counter China.

Analysts further evaluate that China views Myanmar as a component of its global economic empire (the Belt and Road Initiative), whereas India views Myanmar as a vital buffer state and an indispensable neighbor for its security.

Currently, ethnic and regional armed groups including the UWSA, NDAA, MNDAA, SSPP, TNLA, AA, KIA, SNA, NSCN, CNF, and Meitei armed groups are active along the Chinese and Indian border regions.

CNI News

May 25, 2026

President U Min Aung Hlaing stated that a system to generate and utilize electricity from biogas by storing animal waste can be implemented to prevent environmental damage caused by livestock waste and to reduce electricity costs.

He made the above remarks on May 25, 2026, during an inspection tour of livestock farming operations being implemented in Nay Pyi Taw.

President U Min Aung Hlaing said, “Regarding dairy cattle farming, it is necessary to study the farming practices of foreign countries, as well as their feeding and waste management systems. To prevent environmental damage caused by livestock waste and to cut electricity expenses, a system can be implemented to store waste and generate electricity using biogas. In terms of feed production, Napier grass and locally produced corn can be mixed to make composite feed, or fermented into silage for feeding.”

Afterward, he visited poultry, dairy cattle, goat, and pig farms, and also inspected the distribution businesses of fresh rations, dried meat, and ready-to-eat pork curry packs.

CNI News

25 May 2026

Locals reported that Brigade 614 of the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA) has enrolled 74 students in Banmauk Township, Sagaing Region, to support their education.

Currently, enrollment for students for the 2026-2027 academic year in Myanmar is being accepted from May 25 to May 30. Following this, basic education schools are scheduled to open on June 1.

According to locals and education staff, the SNA covered the school enrollment for a total of 74 students in Banmauk Township. This includes 17 students in Grade-12, 12 students in Grade-11, 18 students in Grade-10, 15 students in Grade-9, 11 students in Grade-8, and 7 students in Grade-7.

Banmauk Township is experiencing instability due to town-capture battles launched by the KIA-PDF joint forces, while the Myanmar Military and the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA) are working to maintain peace and stability in the area.

CNI News

May 25, 2026

U Thar Tun Hla, Chairman of the Arakan National Party (ANP), told CNI News that he does not believe a peace dialogue based solely on the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) will lead to a comprehensive and complete peace.

He stated: "I understand that when efforts were made to bring about the NCA ceasefire agreement, over 10 Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) were involved. However, when it neared the time to sign, only about 8 EAOs signed it initially, followed by 2 more later. From its inception, it wasn't a treaty where all ethnic armed groups fully participated and signed. Following the military's takeover of state power in 2021, we have also seen significant differences of opinion emerge among the EAOs that signed the NCA. Therefore, if the peace invitation is based solely on holding onto the NCA, I see difficulties in fostering a peace process where all organizations can participate. That is why I believe peace invitations in this country need to be structured around discussing how the future Federal Union will be built. Thus, I don't see a comprehensive peace dialogue emerging through the NCA alone."

President Min Aung Hlaing.

Currently, the transitional government led by President Min Aung Hlaing has invited 10 NCA-signatory EAOs, as well as non-signatory EAOs, to meet for peace talks.

This peace invitation is valid for a 100-day period only, from April 20, 2026, to July 31, 2026, and they have been urged to come forward before the July 31 deadline.

Dr. Aye Maung, Chairman of the Arakan Front Party (AFP), also told CNI News that if the government considers its duty fulfilled simply by issuing a peace invitation, it will be difficult to move forward. He questioned how the elected government plans to resolve the 80-year-long armed conflict during its 5-year term.

Ethnic Armed Organization leaders.

He stated: "A first step of transition has moved forward—an election was held and an elected government has emerged. How will this elected government end the armed conflict that has persisted since the early days of independence in 1948? How will the elected government implement this objective within its 5-year term? Through what kind of compromise will they build a stable and developed new nation over these five years? We are anticipating this as well. So, is it going to be 80 years plus another 5 years (meaning, will the conflict continue over the next 5 years)? We are asking this question. Or will it be a new step forward for a new nation during this 5-year period? We hope so. To find answers through dialogue, we also need mediators who can bridge the talks through shuttle diplomacy to pave the way for mutual trust. They might need to run back and forth between the armed groups and the government—conveying what is agreed on this side to that side, and vice versa—to achieve results, build mutual trust, and ensure a balanced approach that satisfies both parties. If the government thinks, 'I have done my duty just by inviting them to talk; they will either come or they won't, and that's it,' it will be difficult to move forward."

During the government led by U Thein Sein between 2011 and 2012, bilateral ceasefire agreements were signed at the state and union levels with 14 ethnic armed groups. Discussions for the NCA began in 2013, and the draft agreement was finalized in August 2015.

Subsequently, on October 15, 2015, the KNU, RCSS, ALP, DKBA, KNU/KNLA-PC, PNLO, CNF, and ABSDF signed the agreement, followed by the NMSP and LDU on February 13, 2018.

However, after 2021, differences of opinion emerged among the NCA signatories. The KNU, CNF, and ABSDF withdrew from the NCA and are currently engaged in fighting with the Myanmar military.

CNI News

May 25, 2026

Sai Tun Lin, a Member of Parliament (Pyithu Hluttaw) from the Shan and Nationalities Democratic Party (SNDP), told CNI News that he plans to submit the difficulties and crises faced by local residents in Mone Township, Namsang District, Southern Shan State, to Parliament in order to find solutions.

Mone Township is one of the townships with the largest number of paddy acres in Shan State. Local residents mainly rely on agriculture, with over 10,000 acres of paddy fields and over 10,000 acres of upland crops.

Sai Tun Lin stated that farmers' issues will be prioritized in parliamentary discussions, noting that the livelihoods of farmers are currently in a deeply concerning state.

"From my perspective, the region is currently unstable. Due to this instability, there is a lack of the rule of law. It makes earning a living and daily survival very difficult. For instance, farmers are not receiving agricultural loans to cultivate their crops. Although there are promises to provide them, Mone Township—which I represent—is not included in the 100-day project. Frankly, the country has many needs, but priority must be given to the farmers on the ground who are genuinely suffering. In previous years, Mone Township experienced flooding, and they couldn’t cultivate paddy. The crops that were planted were destroyed by the floods. Now, they don't even have the capital to replant. Therefore, we are arranging for them to access loans to get capital. Rural agricultural roads are also damaged. Furthermore, there are restrictions that prohibit the transportation of local produce from one place to another," Sai Tun Lin said.

Farmlands seen in Mone Township.

The MP added that he will also strive to ensure that farmers in Mone Township receive good prices for their agricultural products.

"The harvested garlic and other produce only fetch about 2,000 to 3,000 Kyats per viss. Under these circumstances, the livelihood of these farmers is extremely worrying. Therefore, to ensure their products sell well, to help them regain capital, and to increase crop yields, it is necessary to properly provide pesticides and fertilizers. Moreover, nowadays, farming is no longer done with cattle, so we need to provide machinery. I am trying to prioritize getting good market prices for their crops," he said.

It is reported that farmers in Mone Township are currently facing hardships because agricultural cultivation loans have not yet been disbursed to them. Since they are excluded from the Agricultural Development Bank's 100-day plan, they will not receive loans in time for the cultivation season, causing significant delays.

Furthermore, over 7,000 acres of paddy fields were destroyed by floods in Mone Township during the 2024–2025 season. In the 2025–2026 season, farmers suffered losses due to a decline in local yields alongside rising labor and agricultural input costs. Consequently, farmers are facing numerous challenges.

Farmlands seen in Mone Township.

Sai Tun Lin told CNI News that while commodity prices on the ground are steadily rising, the farmers' produce does not fetch its deserved value. He intends to question and present these disparities in Parliament.

"Mainly, there is a lot to be done in our country. But first and foremost, I must address the needs of the people I represent regarding roads, bridges, and electricity. Right now, the rainy season is approaching. In my region, it floods every year. Silt enters the rivers, creeks, and dams, and trees grow on top of that silt. Because of this, about 7,000 acres were flooded and destroyed last year. The relevant department has informed me that they will conduct field inspections and resolve this matter quickly. Commodity prices have skyrocketed, but the prices of produce from grassroots farmers have not increased. I am considering asking in Parliament whether the government has a plan to do something using certain methods so that farmers do not suffer from this disparity," he said.

The current new government is implementing a 100-day project from April 20 to July 30, 2026. This 100-day project includes matters such as increasing loans for farmers, trade, peace, and energy.

CNI News

May 22, 2026

Military and political analysts have pointed out that in the parliament emerging after the 2025 general election, MPs (Members of Parliament) should not divide themselves between the ruling party and the opposition, but should instead cooperate to build and develop the country.

In Myanmar, the 2025 general election was held in three phases from December 28, 2025, to January 25, 2026.

Following the election, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) won nationwide and, in collaboration with the Myanmar military(Tatmadaw), formed the Union Government, regional and state governments, as well as the parliament(Hluttaw).

Political analyst U Htet Aung Kyaw told CNI News Agency that it is vital for MPs to maintain a positive outlook toward one another, especially when opposition MPs—who are not part of the ruling party—criticize and point out flaws in the parliament.

The Pyithu Hluttaw (House of Representatives) seen.

"On June 2nd, we will have to look at how much the MPs speak up for the public and the people they represent as a first indicator of how effectively the parliament can function. Another aspect is the opposition; all parties that are not the current ruling party make up the minority opposition MPs. The primary job of these MPs is to criticize and highlight the policies and actions of the winning party and the government. This criticism is their duty, and they are doing their job well—the ruling party and government must accept this graciously. The biggest problem for Myanmar people is that whenever criticism arises, they tend to think, 'These people are just opposing us.' In reality, they are just doing their job. Therefore, if the ruling party and government, who hold the majority, oppress the minority just because they have numbers on their side, it will create fear, and the minority will not dare to speak up. All of this depends on how well we understand democracy and how it works; the progress we make will reflect that understanding," he said.

Political observers and citizens emphasize that the newly emerged parliament and government must genuinely represent the public.

Mann Ye Thurein Han, an MP from the Karen Peoples Party (KPP), told CNI News Agency that while friction between the winning party and opposition parties in parliament is likely, MPs should look past party lines and move forward with a constructive outlook aimed at public interest.

MPs seen in parliament.

"Although we must work by pointing things out with a constructive view, friction will inevitably exist. However, if we approach issues with constructive presentations, that friction can be minimized. In terms of being constructive, for instance, whether it is a policy, affairs, regional development, or a bill introduced by the ruling party—if the opposition deems it suitable for the public and beneficial to the country, they need to accept it. Just as the opposition needs to acknowledge certain things, it would be much better if the ruling party also looks at bills or policies introduced by the opposition that benefit the public with a constructive mindset, thinking, 'Oh, this is beneficial for our country and our people,' rather than seeing it as a challenge to their authority. If public-serving MPs cooperate for the sake of the country—for example, if a law is no longer suitable and we are going to submit a motion—and if members from both the ruling party and the opposition collaborate to introduce and support that motion, a positive environment will emerge," he said.

During the Union Parliament session held on April 3, 2026, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, was elected as President.

Political observers highlight that priority should be given to addressing the skyrocketing commodity prices, which are currently causing severe hardships for the general public, particularly the working class.

Political parties stated that since various parliamentary sessions are scheduled to resume in the first week of June, it remains to be seen what key issues will be brought up for discussion.

CNI News

22 May 2026

The Pansaung border gate, which connects Myanmar’s Naga Self-Administered Zone in Sagaing Region with India, is vital for the local ethnic people as it reduces costs across various sectors including social affairs, healthcare, education, and the flow of goods, U Chit Yaung, Chairman of the United Tangshang Naga Council, told CNI News.

Regarding the closure of the gate, he said: "Mainly, following a recent incident where a certain group opened fire with weapons at the Indian border fencing project, the gate was closed under the pretext of security. Because of this closure, local people faced hardships regarding their daily travel, trade, and family visits. However, we have heard that efforts are being made to reopen it. Currently, people are allowed to travel and purchase essential materials for construction projects and fuel. It has not yet reached the level where locals can travel as freely as before. Roughly speaking, if people order fuel or necessary goods with the recommendation of the local government, they are allowed to buy them. This Pansaung border gate is crucial for the local ethnic people living on the Myanmar side. It is important because the route is convenient, and whether it is for social affairs, healthcare, or education, buying from the Indian side is cost-effective in every aspect."

There is only one official border gate recognized by both governments on the border between the Naga Self-Administered Zone and India. This gate is located in Pansaung Town, Nanyun Township, Naga Region of the Sagaing Region, and connects to the Nampong region in Arunachal Pradesh State, India.

U Chit Yaung, Chairman of the United Tangshang Naga Council

Because transportation and logistics from the Myanmar mainland to the Naga region are extremely difficult, medicines and basic food items are mainly imported from India.

U Chin Maung, Chairman of the Peace Making Committee of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang/An Mai (NSCN-K/AM), told CNI News that the opening of the Pansaung gate can support up to around four townships, and they wish for this route to remain permanently open.

He stated: "It has reopened as before. The main priority is given to livelihood and healthcare matters. The Pansaung gate is truly important. The entire trade flow from India enters through the Pansaung gate, covering Donhee (or Tonhee) township, Nanyun, Donhee, Shinbwiyan, and all the way to Tanai. It covers the whole Naga region. We want this route to be open permanently. They do have restrictions on carrying things like fuel. For fuel, they don't allow large purchases; there is a daily limit on how many liters you can buy."

A view of the Naga region

There are two main routes to transport goods from mainland Myanmar to the Naga region. These routes are the waterway using the Chindwin River from Monywa–Homalin–Khamti to the Naga region, and the land route using the Mahamyine road or Yagyi road from Monywa–Homalin–Khamti to the Naga region.

However, of these two routes, the KIA-PDF joint groups have set up gates at Shwe Pyi Aye town along the waterway, demanding money and blocking the transport of goods. Similarly, along the land route via the Monywa–Homalin Yagyi road or Mahamyine road, the KIA-PDF joint groups have opened around 30 gates and are collecting money.

The proliferation of armed groups, departmental checkpoints, and toll gates, combined with rising extortion at various levels, has made the flow of goods into the Naga region increasingly difficult.

CNI News

22 May 2026

Business owners and economic analysts state that commodity prices are soaring due to domestic product shortages driven by the seizure of illegal goods under the "100-Day Plan," which is being implemented under the directive of the State President.

Beginning in the first week of May, inspections have been tightened and seizures have commenced on trucks carrying Chinese goods entering through northern Shan State, as well as those carrying Thai goods entering via the Myawaddy border.

Seized items include agricultural goods, automotive parts, household products, consumer goods, food products, construction materials, and clothing.

Due to these crackdowns on illegal goods, cargo trucks are now hesitant to transport other allowable commodities. Consequently, those who do venture to transport goods are charging exorbitant freight fees. These steep transport costs, combined with the checkpoint fees paid along the routes, have driven up domestic commodity prices.

Commodities on display

U Thet Zaw, an economic analyst, told CNI News that raw materials used by small-scale businesses have seen their prices spike nearly threefold due to transport costs. Similarly, food and consumer goods widely used by the general public are also experiencing gradual price hikes.

"It has already started happening now. Small-scale entrepreneurs in Myanmar are suffering. To be frank, goods at Ocean, City Mart, or Makro are not much of an issue. How will they import? If you think about it, are the big players getting through just as before? Is it that small-scale businesses can no longer operate? Right now, importing machinery through border trade is not easy. From what I’ve gathered regarding Chinese trade, moving goods from Shweli to Muse has become difficult. Moving them from Muse to Shan State is even harder. As a result, transportation costs now consume about three times the value of a item. Products are not reaching the working-class public at reasonable prices," U Thet Zaw said.

Furthermore, because goods are being seized and money is being extorted at checkpoints, some soldiers and police personnel are reportedly bribing their superiors to secure deployments at these lucrative locations.

Political analyst U Htet Aung Kyaw told CNI News that the government's closure of border trade routes, along with restrictions and seizures on commodity transport, is causing hardship for both business owners and consumers.

Cargo trucks undergoing inspection

"There are cases where people have to pay 900 lakhs per truck just to enter. That is how Myanmar's economy has always operated—mostly in a gray zone. In reality, these are not acts of extreme greed. They aren't trafficking drugs or weapons; it is legitimate livelihood trading. If the government designated it as legitimate, these people would be doing clean business. But with blockades here and there, everyone is forced to operate in the gray zone. Business operators are suffering, the consuming public is suffering—everyone is suffering," U Htet Aung Kyaw said.

According to business owners, freight operations importing Chinese and Thai goods have currently ground to a halt due to the government's strict inspection and seizure of illegal goods under the 100-Day Plan.

Additionally, domestic transport of goods between different regions and states is now subject to strict quantity limits and product restrictions.