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PHEK — Pointing out that the protracted and unresolved Naga political issue has, for so long, overshadowed progress and development in Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday implored the people to talk peace, act peace and live in peace.
Addressing the 50th anniversary celebration of Phek district held at Phek town local ground on the theme 'Transcending in truth,’ the chief minister said that people of Nagaland would have been doing much better if given the opportunity to shine and excel.
Rio urged the citizens co-operate with law and order agencies to maintain peaceful environment, so as to enable people of varied professions and students to continue their respective activities, to ensure progress and development.
While lamenting that the Naga society is in a confused state and having a “hard time to unify,” he however lauded the people of Phek district for their “unity.”
He affirmed that unity should be the top most priority of any society to propel peace, progress and development.
Rio recalled that it was during the time of the then chief minister Dr. Hokishe Sema that four new districts – Phek, Mon, Zunheboto and Wokha - were created in 1973.
On reaching the milestone, he paid tributes to the pioneers of Phek district who worked and sacrificed for the welfare of the district.
Addressing the demand for a separate district by the Pochury tribe inhabiting Meluri sub-division, the chief minister assured that the government will fulfill their aspiration in due time.
Expressing concern that the present society tends to shy away from speaking the truth, he advised Naga society to let truth be at the core, to uphold customs, tradition and Christian values.
Asserting that Phek district, inhabited by the Chakhesang and Pochury tribes, was called ‘Land of tradition,’ Rio said the sobriquet was so coined as the two tribes are hard-working, uphold integrity and have been upholding their respective culture, tradition and heritage.
He asserted that Phek district and its people are the most ‘progressive’ in Nagaland.
Pointing out that the Village Development Board (VDB) was first established in Phek district, the chief minister also noted that the people of the district are excelling in competitive examinations, sports, academic and music and arts.
The chief minister also observed that over the years, the people of the district have inculcated a sense of competition and responsibility.
Making a fervent appeal to get rid of enmity within the Naga family, he advocated "Nagaism" in unity, oneness and brotherhood.
"If Nagas as a whole are successful, everybody will be successful, but if Nagas are not successful, then every one of us will be affected," he said
Earlier, Kuzholuzo Nienu, MLA, the convenor of programme committee, delivered the welcome address.
President of Pochury Hoho, Chonpa Jurry; president of Chakhesang Public Organisation, Vezuhu Keyho; Dr. Neisatuo Mero, MLA; Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, Advisor of New and Renewable Energy, and Kudecho Khamo, Advisor of CAWD and Taxes, also spoke on the occasion.
Minister of Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye, proposed vote of thanks.
The chief minister also unveiled the golden jubilee monolith and released the jubilee souvenir.