Unity among Naga tribes essential for State’s progress: Temjen Imna Along

January 15, 2025 4 Views No Comment

Sükrünye festival commences at Phek Town

Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 15

Nagaland’s Higher Education and Tourism Minister, Temjen Imna Along stated on Tuesday that Naga unity will not come from Delhi. Instead, the unity of all 17 Naga tribes and sub-tribes must be built through mutual trust and cooperation in order to move the state forward with the blessing of God.

Minister Along made these remarks while speaking at the Sükrünye Festival, the premier cultural celebration of the Chakhesang tribe, which commenced in Phek Town under the aegis of the Phek Town Public Forum (PTPF) on January 14. He emphasized that unity among Nagas is essential for the state’s progress, and while unity is often discussed, it needs to be actively practiced.

Addressing the gathering as the cultural guest on the first day of the festival, Minister Along also stressed the importance of instilling a dignity of labor among young people, regardless of their academic qualifications. He encouraged the youth not to simply criticize the government, church, or public leaders on social media but to go out into the world, work hard, and experience life themselves. He reminded the people that their parents have made significant sacrifices for their education and it is now time to repay them constructively.

The Minister praised the Chakhesang community for their efforts in preserving and promoting their culture, noting that each Naga tribe has its own unique traditions. People from various states and countries visit Nagaland to experience the distinct culture of the Nagas, he added.

Minister Along also urged the younger generation, including college students and adults, to limit their consumption of K-dramas, which he referred to as addictive. While he admitted to watching them himself, he emphasized that Nagas will never become Japanese or Korean. Instead, he encouraged them to revive and embrace their own culture, which is a gift from God, to make Nagaland culturally and traditionally rich.

The Minister pointed out that Nagas often get carried away by trends from around the world, but he stressed that they should instead trust in God’s destiny for the people of Nagaland.

While celebrating Sükrünye, the festival of sanctification and purification of the Chakhesang tribes, Minister Along appealed to all the tribes of Nagaland to work hard and contribute to the well-being of everyone.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by Khosapa Venuh, with Api Vadeo, president of PTPF, delivered the welcome address. Phek Deputy Commissioner John Tsulise Sangtam lifted the Radebo, while Niepayi Venuh, head GB of Phek Town, pronounced the blessing.

MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, leader of the NPF Legislature Party, Veyielo Doulo, Director of Tourism for Nagaland, and several other dignitaries also attended the celebration. Day one of the festival featured folk songs, ululating, top-fight, and push-of-war competitions.

Nagaland Roads & Bridges Minister G. Kaito Aye will be the guest of honor on January 15. The second-day programme will be chaired by Dr. K. Hoshi, with MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu serving as the host.