Khiamniungan tribe celebrates ‘Khaozaosie Hok- Ah’ festival

Dimapur, Jan. 21 (EMN): ‘Khaozaosie Hok- Ah-cum-mini Hornbill Festival of the Khiamniungan community was celebrated at Noklak town on January 20.

The advisor of Prisons, Printing and Stationery, H Haiying, was the special guest of the event and Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, Hiazu Meru was the host.

Speaking on the occasion, Haiying stated that the government was ready to promote the tourism sector in the region. In this regard, he advised the youth to practically contribute and create tourism-friendly places.

He also encouraged the youth to use their talents and skills to improve tourism and uplift their livelihood. He went on to advise the youth to take responsibility and co-operate with the government in order to bring development in the district.

Haiying further called upon the people to rededicate themselves and unite for all round development and wished them a good harvest and good health, a DIPR report stated.

Considering the potential of the tourism sector in the district, Hiazu Meru encouraged the youth to give importance to tourism, saying it is the fastest growing industry in the world.

Noklak Superintendent of Police, Pritpal Kaur said that farmers are the backbone of the society, while urging the people not to exploit the natural resources but preserve and protect the biodiversity instead. She also urged the youth to conserve and promote traditional values.

President of Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC), M Thangou stated that ‘Khaozaosie Hok-Ah’ is an important festival of the Khiamniungan tribe, marking the end of all agricultural activities as well as a time to rest and give thanks to God for the bountiful harvest and triumph over adversities throughout the year.

The update informed that folksong was presented by Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam of Noklak town unit, while the invocation prayer was pronounced by Hempao Lam, KBCA executive secretary, and benediction said by pastor of LBC Noklak town, A Penglang.

The programme, which was marked by traditional dances and songs, started by ‘paying tribute’ to civilians who lost their lives on December 4 in Oting.