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KOHIMA — Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, TR Zeliang, suggested to the citizens of Poilwa village on Friday to focus on the tourism sector, considering its unique landscape and proximity to the state capital.
He was addressing the general conference of Poilwa Lui Nagaland, at the panchayat hall in Poilwa village and urged them to work together in unity and pursue a common vision.
He opined that Poilwa should be referred to as the first village in Peren district because it is the first village to border another tribe and embodies the district's image. He admired the beauty of the land, noting its abundance of natural resources, including two rivers—Tepuiki and Duilumroi—along with valuable forests and fauna. He also remarked that it is one of the most blessed villages in Peren district.
TR pointed out that Poilwa village occupies a strategic location, situated on both inter-state and inter-district boundaries. He emphasised that local products could serve as a primary source of income for the villagers, noting that marketing opportunities are comparatively better.
He asserted that Poilwa village holds significant historical importance as one of the oldest and largest ancestral villages among the Zeliangrong communities, second only to Mkuilongdi.
He highlighted that the village served as a pivotal point from which Zeliangrong people migrated southward, eventually spreading as far as the NC Hills in Assam. Additionally, he proposed that the village should be recognised as the Zeliangrong Puipei (parent village).
The deputy chief minister pondered whether this is the reason good leaders emerge from villages, citing the example of T Haralu, the first Naga deputy commissioner of Kohima, who was also the first Naga recipient of the Padma Shri.
He also recalled the personalities from the village who were pioneers among the Nagas in various fields, including the first Naga flying officer, Hairoiding Haralu; the first Naga doctor, Dr. Harielungbe Haralu; the first Naga ambassador to Panama and Costa Rica, NN Haralu; and the first graduate among the Zeliang, Namgaheung Zeliang.
In this regard, he advised the present people of the village to live exemplary lives, respecting the pioneers and serving as role models to others. He also emphasised the various historical significances associated with Poilwa village.