Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang and other dignitaries with participants of “Tribal March” in Kohima on November 15. (Morung Photo)
Let us aim to defeat tribalism, be united as a Naga: TR
Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 15
Nagaland today joined the rest of the country in observing Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas 2023 through “Tribal March” by 17 tribes from Kohima College premises to Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Gate).
Flagging off the march, Nagaland’s Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang (Planning & Transformation & National Highways) said “May this ‘Tribal March’ bring more unity and a sense of brotherhood among the tribes.”
Let us aim to defeat tribalism and be united as a Naga, he said. While we remember many great personalities in the struggle for Independence, he said, some tribal leaders are rarely remembered in honour of their contribution.
“There may be such personality from Naga community who may have gone unnoticed so we should trace back and keep a record and set aside a day to celebrate their lives,” he suggested.
Zeliang said that Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas is celebrated to remember and honour the contributions of tribal freedom fighters of the country.
About Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas
Nagaland’s tribal affairs department secretary, Angelina Tajen said that November 15 is celebrated as Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas to mark the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a tribal freedom fighter.
“On this day, we also remember the various tribal movements across India against the British colonial rule. Besides, Munda, there are many notable freedom fighters. Coming closer home, we have our own leader Rani Gaidinliu, who led a revolt against British Rule in India,” Tajen said.
She was optimistic the celebrations of Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas “will inspire us to acknowledge the sacrifices of our tribal freedom fighters and their legacy and take forward our tribal culture, art and our rich heritage.”
Tajen informed that the department has set aside various activities for 15 days to commemorate the glorious history of the tribal people, culture and achievements, display of unique cultural practices, traditions, food, art & craft, education, etc.
Activities line up for Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas in Nagaland
November 16-20: Tribal Art &Crafts Mela @ Gorkha Panchayat Hall, Kohima.
November 17: Debate among tribal students @ GHSS Dimapur
November 21: State Level Tribal Tug- of- War @ The Garden Kohima
November 21: Tribal Folk song and dance @ The Garden Kohima
November 24: Swachhata Campaign @ Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima
November 24: State level painting competition among tribal students @ DUDA Conference Hall Kohima
