Advisor Zhaleo Rio addressing the gathering of Kuki students at Moava Village on December 17. (Photo Courtesy: NDPP 5 Ghaspani-II A/C)
Medziphema, December 17 (MExN): Zhaleo Rio, IAS (Retd), Advisor to the Department of Sericulture, Excise & Minority Affairs, GoN, attended the 29th general conference of Kuki Students’ Organisation Nagaland (KSON) as special guest of the felicitation programme on December 17 at Moava Village under Medziphema sub-division.
Zhaleo said that their conference theme, “Honouring the past, Treasuring the future & Shaping the future” is impressive and that they should continue to encourage youngsters inculcate our rich cultural heritage, etc.
Elaborating on it, Zhaleo mentioned that “to honour the past is to learn one's history and to know your roots" while on treasuring the present, he advised that "we should introspect or retrospect on our present activities accordingly" which when set in order, will all help in shaping the future.
Zhaleo noted that the state government has today, emphasised on communitisation policies which are solely to empower rural people and advised the gathering that everyone should be vigilant towards a successful achievement in implementation of the policies.
On CAB, Zhaleo assured that Nagaland is exempted under the Act and that “it will not affect us since we are covered by ILP of BEFR Act 1873,” however, he added that “vested interests may continue to create disturbances through false propaganda in order to gain political mileage.” He urged everyone to “be united for unbiased, fair judgment every time so that we prosper with a brighter vision of the Naga society.”
A press release issued by Media Secretary, NDPP 5 Ghaspani-II A/C stated that Zhaleo, addressing the gathering said he was honoured and amazed at the number of award recipients in different fields for their meritorious achievements and added they are the hidden treasures of the society.
It may be noted that many of the participants received awards for their outstanding feats in education, HSLC, HSSLC, College and University toppers, young distinguished job holders, etc.
Zhaleo went on to state that “Kuki community may be a minority tribe in Nagaland but that they are also a majority among the minority.” He further noted their sacrifices and records in the Naga political issue and reiterated that Kuki tribe is a recognised tribe in Nagaland.
On preservation of tradition and culture, Rio advised that they are very important for identity of a community and urged for adequate promotion through various platforms. Citing Hornbill Festival as an example for such purpose, he affirmed that it is youth oriented and farmer friendly although the common notion may vary among individuals.
