The Kuki community carries Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on a palanquin during Minkut Festival celebration at Ahthibung on January 17. (DIPR Photo)
Ahthibung, January 18: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the 7th State level Mimkut festival cum 50 years Nagaland Statehood celebration 2014, as the chief guest at Ahthibung town on January 17.
Rio reiterated Government’s support for preservation of the rich culture and unique traditions of the Nagas, stating that festivals were meant to usher in peaceful atmosphere and further reminded that without peace there cannot be development. Lamenting that the present generation are mostly after easy money without cultivating the habit of work culture, the chief guest reminded of our ancestors who had plenty to eat due to their sense of work culture. He called upon the people to work more and to learn more to transform our society to a producing economy.
In the programme, short speeches were also delivered by chief host, MLA and Chairman NHHDC Namri Nchang and guest of honour Minister planning and coordination TR. Zeliang. President Kuki Inpi Nagaland, submitted a memorandum while Kuki ethnic fashion show was organised the by Kuki Beauty and aesthetic society.
Earlier, welcome address was delivered by Chairman KUT Committee L. Singsit IPS and traditional ritual was performed by KUTPA. Ahthibung cultural troupe presented the welcome song while Special Number was presented by Blank Cheque and Aching & Pichong Ahthibung. Other highlights of Mimkut festival included cultural dances by various cultural troupes, Zeliang folk dance by Old Beisumpuikam Village and Angami folk dance by Medziphema cultural club. Co-Chairman Mimkut Committee L. Misao proposed vote of thanks.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister for Planning T.R. Zeliang, MLA & Chairman Handloom & Handicraft Namri Nchang, Minister for Tourism, Art & Culture E.E. Pangteang, Parliamentary Secretary for Fishery, Shetoyi, Commissioner Secretary to CM. DIG HoD’s and public leaders of Peren district and the people of Ahthibung area attended the Mimkut festival.
