Dimapur, February 3 (MExN): Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, today called upon the Naga people to transcend their “individualism and tribalism” to “Nagaism” and to start learning and living like a proud Naga.
“Individually, you and I may be proud of our own achievements and progress, but we need to come together in unity to uphold our identity as proud Nagas,” the chief minister said in his address at the ‘Chakhesang Cultural Festival 2012” organized by Chakhesang Hoho Dimapur District (CHDD) at Diphupar ‘B’ village, on Friday.
Rio said that one major problem with Nagas is that though they are fond of talking lofty things and ideals, but they lack action and that nobody listens to each other. This is also why the Naga political problem has continued to elude a solution, he said. He also said that other peoples recognized the distinct culture and tradition of the Nagas and sought to protect the unique identity and culture of the Nagas, like the Britishers who passed the innerline regulation act during British India and also post-independence India which provided special provisions for Nagas under Article 371 (A). “But we Nagas have failed to recognize each other,” Rio said and added that Nagas can have a future only when they recognize each other and come together.
Calling the Chakhesang tribe as one of the most progressive Naga tribes, the chief minister said this was because the Chakhesangs are rooted in the strong foundation of their forefathers’ culture and way of life including honesty, hard work and integrity. It may be mentioned the chief minister had in 2010 during the “Road shows” declared Phek district inhabited by Chakhesang and Pochury tribes as “Land of Tradition.” Rio also acknowledged the resolutions of the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) to ban import of livestock and establishing a “Reserve Forest” in all Chakhesang villages. He said such initiatives indicated presence of work culture and traditional value system.
Further, the chief minister also called on the need to improvise Naga dances, mostly war dances, to make them more “graceful and soothing” so as to attract visitors and tourists. He suggested the department of Art & Culture, NEZCC and cultural clubs to take the initiative in this regard. Rio said the state government had recognized tourism potential in Nagaland and initiated a numbers of venture including the “Road shows and tribal festivals” to attract visitors to the state and that the Ministry of Tourism had also encouraged such initiatives. Keeping with the encouragement of the Ministry of Tourism, he said the government would be organizing youth festivals across the state.
Earlier, greeting the festival gathering, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu said out that the culture and tradition speaks volumes about the people. He said that the rich culture of the Chakhesang people indicated the sound economy of their forefathers, peaceful co-existence and unity among the people. Azo also urged the Chakhesang community in Dimapur to continue upholding the “unity” and set an example to the rest of the Nagas.
Advisor, Art & Culture, Deo Nukhu, MLA, who was the guest of honour of the festival also addressed the gathering. Highlights of the festival included address by CHDD president, Vekhosayi Nyekha, cultural displays (folk songs and dances and games) and fashion show (traditional and modern Chakhesang attires). Agriculture minister, Dr. Chumben Murry; deputy chairman of State Planning Board, Neiba Kronu; advisor, Cooperation & Sericulture, Azheto Zhimom, L Temjen, MLA; Toshipokba Jamir, MLA, and a host of government officials, NGO representatives and other attended the festival.
