The Nagaland Chief Minister being accorded a welcome at the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill Festival at Nokhu on January 20. (DIPR Photo)
Dimapur, January 20 (MExN): The second day of the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill Festival 2026 was held on January 20 at Nokhu in Noklak district, with Chief Minister of Nagaland Dr. Neiphiu Rio attending as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rio said the State Government is promoting tribal festivals to preserve the rich culture and traditions of the Nagas, noting that festivals foster friendship and unity among the people. He said the forefathers, “through their wisdom, initiated and protected Naga culture and traditions and passed them down from generation to generation.”
Dr. Rio also referred to the period following the advent of the British in India, stating that the British recognized Naga culture and traditions and enacted the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873, a British-era regulation 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 Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation demand, Dr. Rio stated that the State Government has already submitted its recommendation to the Central Government for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority in Eastern Nagaland.
The CM further spoke 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. He stressed the need for peace and unity and urged elected representatives, civil society organisations and church leaders to work together in unity for the progress of society.
During the programme, Dr. Rio inaugurated the handicrafts stall set up by the Noklak District Handloom and Handicrafts Council, along with stalls of various departments and self-help groups under the district. He also shot the first bow and arrow set up by the Khiamniungan Sports Council.
Tribal guest and President of the Angami Public Organization, 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 unity among the Naga people. Referring to the historical context, he said Nagaland statehood became possible from the beginning of the Naga National Movement.
Describing Naga society as a “wounded society” due to multiple causes over the course of its journey, Vihienuo said the only way to heal is to build trust among each other and called for peace and unity as pillars to regain the trust lost among the tribes. He expressed hope that the festival would not be a mere celebration but would lay the foundation of friendship not only between the Angami and Khiamniungan tribes but also among other Naga tribes. He urged the two tribes to take responsibility to draw closer to each other and appealed for strengthening bonds with other Nagas as well.
Earlier, festival greetings were delivered by MLA Benei M Lamthiu, the host of the day. Traditional precaution for the festival and the friendship treaty was proposed by the head DB of Nokhu, Palu. 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.
Dr. Rio was accompanied by Minister Metsübo Jamir, Minister C. L. John, MLA Achumbemo Kikon, MLA P. Longon and other members of the entourage during the festival programme.
