Minister N Jacob Zhimomi urges people to uphold unity, cultural values

DIMAPUR — Minister for Public Health Engineering and Cooperation N Jacob Zhimomi on Monday stated that the Naga communities, particularly the Angamis and Semas, were among the first to discover the Chümoukedima area, which, he said, has fertile soil and a conducive atmosphere for agriculture and businesses.

He made these remarks at the 1st Chümoukedima Circle Chakhroma Youth Organisation Sports Meet 2025, held at Sammogooting Stadium in Chümoukedima, and also observed that the region now accommodates a diverse population comprising people from across India.

The minister mentioned that the Chakhromas and Western Sumis are blessed to inhabit this “sacred land” and attributed the land’s fertility to God’s will and mercy.

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He noted that as one of the 17 districts, Chümoukedima is among the first to experience and adopt the lifestyles and practices of the country, setting an example later replicated in other districts. He added that the behaviour and interactions of its people with other Naga tribes and communities would significantly influence social and cultural practices across the state.

He, therefore, emphasised the importance of exhibiting exemplary social behaviour within families and with other tribes so that others could emulate positive practices and observed that noticeable progress and positive impacts had already been made.

Zhimomi further remarked that through sports, music, and arts, Nagas have made significant progress, bridging relationships within their community and with other Naga tribes. He said these platforms have been instrumental in fostering growth and unity, contributing to the community’s present achievements.

He noted that Nagas have excelled in music, sports, and arts, which he described as commendable. However, he underscored the need to preserve and promote indigenous culture by creating music in local languages and reviving traditional sports practised by forefathers, while also embracing innovation and technology.

The minister stated that although progress is being made, deeper advancement required strengthening moral, social, political, and spiritual foundations. He mentioned that the uniqueness of the Nagas has been recognised by past and present leaders and said it is now their responsibility to build on that legacy. He added that this effort is not about isolation but about preserving a distinct identity while moving forward.

Zhimomi said that Nagaland has completed over 60 years of statehood, reaffirming its commitment to peace, harmony, and unity. He observed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government of India is promoting sports and encouraging the youth to pursue careers in music and sports through improved infrastructure, which he said is propelling the state forward.

He stated that the state’s rich culture serves as a form of soft power, showcased globally through the Hornbill Festival, which has earned international recognition. He said this collective effort, initiated by past governments, provided a platform for Nagas to unite socially, politically, and culturally, strengthening their heritage and statehood.

The minister highlighted the need for collective progress, ensuring that everyone is included and no one is left behind. He added that Prime Minister Modi’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047 encompasses the development of all 29 states, including Nagaland.

He urged that efforts must be made to excel in education, sports, music, and other areas. He said initiatives such as the Fit India movement underscore the importance of health and wellness, while the increased budget allocation for sports and music reflects the government’s commitment to the state’s development.

While acknowledging the influence of global cultures, Zhimomi stressed the importance of remaining rooted in one’s own heritage and being proud of language and culture, even without a written script.

He said building society requires collective effort across social, cultural, spiritual, and political aspects. He also pointed out that with India’s population of 146 crore, including Nagaland’s 21 lakh, the nation’s demographic advantage lay in its youth, which constitute 70% of the population. He described this young population as the country’s greatest asset and human resource.

He remarked that developing human resources was a top priority for the government of India, while the state government of Nagaland is focused on empowering its young population. He said providing gainful employment opportunities in fields such as sports, music, and other co-curricular activities is key. He also noted that sports and music have been effective in bridging cultural gaps and bringing people together, as they transcend language and other barriers.

The legislator stated that unity among Naga tribes has numerous positive impacts and would yield beneficial results. He believes that a healthy and fit society is essential for building and developing the state, villages, and towns, as physical fitness and sportsmanship go hand in hand with mental well-being, enabling informed decisions and productive discussions necessary for progress and development.

He acknowledged that the unity and collective efforts of Naga communities, including the Chakhroma, are vital for Nagaland’s development. He asserted that initiating dialogues and discussions would foster progress and prosperity in the state, which he described as beautiful and God-given, blessed with fertile land and abundant opportunities.

He commended the circle for hosting its first-ever sports event, which brought people together in the Chümoukedima district, and wished the young participants success as they strive to become excellent athletes, footballers, and individuals of strong character and values, serving as role models and ambassadors within their tribes.