Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio highlighted unity and the role of the Pan Naga Hoho while addressing the Khiamniungan festival at Nokhu village in Noklak district.
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DIMAPUR — Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday elaborated on the role of the Pan Naga Hoho in uniting Naga people across different regions and states and in safeguarding their shared identity and welfare.
Addressing the public on the second day of the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival 2026 of the Khiamniungan community at Nokhu village in Noklak district, Rio emphasised the need for peace and unity among the people and urged elected representatives, civil society organisations and church leaders to work together for the progress of society, according to an update from DIPR.
Rio said the state government is promoting tribal festivals to preserve the rich culture and traditions of the Nagas, adding that festivals foster friendship and unity among the people. He said the forefathers, with their wisdom, initiated and protected Naga culture and traditions by passing them down from generation to generation.
He said the British in India had recognised the culture and traditions of the Nagas and enacted the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873, aimed at protecting indigenous tribes of the north-eastern region. He said the Act helped preserve Naga culture and traditions through the enforcement of the Inner Line Permit system.
On the ENPO demand, Rio said the state government has already submitted its recommendations to the Central government for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority in eastern Nagaland.
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated stalls set up by the Noklak District Handloom and Handicrafts Council, various departments and self-help groups. He also shot the first bow and arrow set up by the Khiamniungan Sports Council.
Also speaking at the event, Angami Public Organisation president Thejao Vihienuo said the friendship between the Angami and Khiamniungan tribes has been maintained since time immemorial. He said the APO believes in the oneness of the Nagas and is determined to foster Naga unity.
Describing Naga society as a “wounded society” due to multiple causes over the course of history, he said the only way to heal is to build trust among one another.
He called for peace and unity to regain trust among the tribes.
Vihienuo said the festival was not just a celebration but also laid the foundation of friendship shared not only between the Angami and Khiamniungan but also with other Naga tribes. He urged the two tribes to take responsibility to draw closer to each other and appealed to foster similar bonds with other Naga tribes.
The host of the day and MLA Benei M Lamthiu conveyed festival greetings. A speech on traditional precautions for the festival and the friendship treaty was delivered by the Head DB of Nokhu, Palu, while the welcome address was delivered by the president of the Khiamniungan Tribal Council, L Ngon.
Folk fusion was presented by Thsoithen Langtha, while ‘Hoi i-e tsu’ was performed by Choklangan village.
Rio was accompanied by ministers Metsübo Jamir and CL John, along with MLAs Achumbemo Kikon and P Longon.