‘Naga unity must be rebuilt to secure lasting peace’

Morung Express News 
Longsa | August 1

‘The weakening of unity among the Naga people, marked by growing tribal, organisational and factional divisions, poses a serious challenge to lasting peace and a collective future,’ remarked Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S Keoshu Yimkhiung on Saturday.

Addressing the Tsüngremmung Festival 2026 at Salang Lenden, Longsa village, the Advisor said ‘unity had historically been the greatest strength of the Nagas.’ Despite the absence of roads, modern communication, formal education and administrative systems in earlier times, he said the people had maintained a strong sense of togetherness. ‘This unity was an important force in the Naga political journey and contributed to the attainment of Nagaland statehood in 1963,’ he added.

However, Yimkhiung expressed concern that this shared spirit had weakened over time as divisions based on tribes, organisations and factions became more pronounced. He said such fragmentation had made it increasingly difficult for the Naga people to work towards common objectives.

Referring to divisions even within apex Naga organisations, including the Naga Hoho, he questioned ‘how lasting peace or a collective solution to Naga issues could be achieved without unity.’

Yimkhiung said rebuilding togetherness should not be seen as the responsibility of leaders and organisations alone. Every individual, he said, must develop the willingness to work in unison and place the larger interest of the Naga people above narrow divisions.

He added that the true essence of Tsüngremmung and other traditional festivals lies in seeking divine blessings, fostering unity, and living in peace. Festivals, he said, should be moments for reflecting on shared values and renewing social bonds, not for act that contradicts their purpose.

Calling on the younger generation to value their heritage, Yimkhiung said communities should preserve the positive values of their forefathers while discarding outdated practices. He emphasised that cultural preservation requires both respect for tradition and social responsibility.

Guest of Honour and Land Resources Advisor G Ikuto Zhimomi emphasised the need to preserve Naga traditions, noting that each tribe’s identity is expressed through its attire, songs, dances, cuisine, crafts, and customs. He highlighted that tribal festivals, tied to the agricultural cycle, serve as key platforms for honoring ancestors and passing cultural knowledge to youth.

Zhimomi also pointed out that cultural preservation can boost economic opportunities, especially through tourism. As Nagaland is known as the “Land of Festivals,” local arts, crafts, music, dance, and traditions can become valuable community assets.

The festival was organised by the Longsa Village Council under the patronage of Tourism Department, Government of Nagaland. Minister for Rural Development and SIRD Metsübo Jamir was the Chief Host.

Jamir, in his address, also called for unity among communities, saying people should remain together not only during celebrations but also in times of difficulty. He noted that the presence of delegates from various villages reflected a spirit of mutual goodwill and togetherness.

The celebration began with the traditional Arr Atsütsü ceremonial vine-pulling procession and featured cultural performances by troupes from Sangphur and Surumi villages, along with indigenous games and folk presentations.