Dignitaries and participants of Border area cultural programme at Thanamir on November 11.
Kohima, November 13 (MExN): The North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Ministry of Culture, Government of India, Dimapur, in collaboration with the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Nagaland, organised the Border Area Cultural Exchange Programme at Thanamir International Border village, Kiphire District on November 11.
Addressing the programme, Kinan, Secretary for Social & Culture, Yimkhiung Tribal Council, expressed concern over the growing influence of digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence, observing that technological advancement is increasingly changing the nature of human labour.
He particularly highlighted the concern that the younger generation, especially those residing in towns and cities, are gradually deviating from learning and practising their own traditional culture. He emphasised that culture should not remain confined to villages alone but should also be encouraged, promoted and practised in urban settlements to ensure its continuity among the younger generation.
He appreciated the Zapami Cultural Troupe for travelling all the way from Pfutsuro to Thanamir to participate in the cultural exchange programme.
He also expressed his gratitude to NEZCC and the Department of Art and Culture for bringing such a meaningful cultural initiative to this far-flung border village, providing an opportunity for cultural interaction and exchange among communities.
The programme featured a series of traditional cultural performances by various village and community-based cultural groups, including A Khel Cultural Club, B Khel Cultural Club, C Khel Cultural Club, D Khel Cultural Club, Penkim Folk Fusion Group, and cultural troupes from Zapami and Salomi villages.
The performances showcased the rich traditional songs, dances, music and cultural expressions of the participating communities.
The Border Area Cultural Exchange Programme was organised with the objective of promoting, preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditional performing arts of indigenous communities residing along the Indo-Myanmar international border areas of Nagaland.
It also provided a platform for local artists, cultural troupes and community groups to share their traditional cultural practices, strengthen inter-community relationships and create greater awareness of the importance of safeguarding their unique cultural identity and heritage.
Through such collaborative initiatives with NEZCC, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Nagaland, endeavours to strengthen cultural activities at the grassroots level, encourage the participation of local communities and ensure that the rich cultural traditions of border areas are preserved, promoted and transmitted to future generations.
Earlier, welcome address was delivered by Tsechimong, Chairman, Thanamir Village Council.
Keynote address was delivered by Teisovikuolie Therie, Nodal Officer and Deputy Director, Department of Art and Culture while Akam P, District Cultural Officer, Kiphire proposed vote of thanks.
The programme reflected the importance of cultural exchange in fostering unity, mutual understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultural heritage.
