Mao Union Kohima turns 50
Morung Express
Kohima | December 15
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today urged Nagas to move beyond their personal interests in order to achieve the Naga aspiration.
“If we really want Naga aspiration and Naga identity to survive and peace and development in our land, we have to come to the level of Nagaism sacrificing our personal and tribal interests so that we can unite and give Nagaism our top priority,” Rio said while speaking at the commemoration of Mao Union Kohima (MUK) Golden jubilee.
Under the theme, ‘A milestone of Common Journey’, the MUK celebrated 50 years on December 15 with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as the honored guest at the event held at Lower AG Colony Kohima.
“The story of Nagas is very complex,” said Rio implying the division of the Nagas in different countries and states. Rio asserted that the British left behind a legacy of Naga division across two countries and states within these countries. “It is high time that everybody should move towards the unity and integration of Nagas,” said Rio.
Further emphasising on the Tenyimia community within the Nagas, Rio also spoke extensively on the history and origin of the Tenyimias who today are divided in the state of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland. “We are a family of Tenyimias among the Nagas. As we share our historical, cultural and social roots we realise that we are one family but the administrative jurisdiction has divided us very badly,” stated Rio.
During the celebration, Rio also acknowledged the contribution of the Mao community to Naga society. “I have seen how the Maos have struggled and how they have worked to grow to this present day. I find you hardworking and committed to whatever disciplines you carry. I am fortunate and proud to be your brother-in-law,” said Rio.
Having closely been associating and observing the Mao community, Rio stated that the community has contributed to the economy of Manipur as well as Nagaland where many are engaged in both formal and informal sectors. “From educationists to daily wage earners, you are doing a commendable job in our society and our economy,” said Rio who also cited the contribution of the community in the field of education in Nagaland.
Apart from the establishment of several educational institutions by the community in Nagaland, Rio also acknowledged the presence of Mao intellectuals and educationists in institutions which has enhanced quality in such institutions.
“We remember the pioneers who have started the needs of the Union, and appreciate the visions and policies guiding the community to live in harmony with each other and co-exist with the people in the State. In times like this, it is appropriate to introspect and reflect to move ahead and a time to commit,” said Rio.
While appreciating the hardworking trait of the Mao community, Rio also addressed the problem of unemployment in the State with many youth failing to take up available jobs especially in the labour sector. “We voluntarily remain unemployed thinking that it is below our standard. There is no benchmark or standard of jobs. If you are doing nothing, you are good for nothing,” said Rio urging the young to defy the mentality of ‘doing nothing’ and take up available jobs.
Providing a brief history of the MUK, Ashikho Daili, former President MUK stated the Mao Union Kohima was initiated for cooperation and unity of the community as well as others in the society.
With the growing number of Mao diaspora in Kohima, pioneers took the social responsibility of leading the larger interest and common good of the community in relation with other sections and members of the society, where Union was officially established in the year 1968 with Late Ashikho Kaisii and H.R Chakho as the first President and General Secretary.
“Some of the activities carried out during the initial years were drives against act of immoral and anti-social activities (like trafficking, theft, selling of illicit liquor), social welfare and relief assistance as well as other extra-curricular activities. As part of the larger society, the Mao Union Kohima also took part and delegated to major events and meetings which call for collective social responsibilities in relation to other organisations and unions,” said Daili.
