Festivals sow seeds of unity and identity, says Nagaland Chief Minister

MOKOKCHUNG: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday said festivals sow the seed of unity and identity besides sharing the tradition and culture among the Naga family.

“To say one is proud to be a Naga can be achieved only when people are united,” he said.

Rio was speaking on the second day of the Moatsü celebration organised by Ao Senden at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung.

Tracing back to Naga nationalism movement for independence, ceasefire agreement and ongoing dialogue, Rio opined that everyone should pray and work together for the Naga political settlement.

‘If we all unite and settle on terms that are possible during our time, then the younger generation and Naga’s future will move forward,’ he said.

He also lamented that with the event of modernity and Christianity, Nagas have lost many valuable culture and traditions.

‘Therefore our rich heritage should be taught from childhood to protect, promote and preserve our ethos’, he said.

Joint meeting on ULBs, RIIN and oil exploration issues

Rio also informed that a joint meeting with all tribal hohos, civil society leaders, prominent leaders and political parties will be held on May 9 where issues pertaining to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Registration of Indigenous Inhabitant of Nagaland (RIIN) and oil exploration will be discussed.

In this connection, he appealed to all the stakeholders to come with their thoughts on these issues.

Minister of Rural Development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir , who was the guest of honour , said that God-given resources to Nagas should be used instead of keeping them untapped.

Earlier, Moatsü greetings where also delivered by Vezuhu Keyho President of Chakhesang Public Organisation, Nungsanglemba President of Chang Khulie Setshang, and Nikheto Zhimomi of President Sumi Hoho, while welcome address was delivered by Chubawati Longchar President Ao Senden.

The celebration also witnessed cultural dance competition and inter-ward tug-of-war.