Phom Day: Testament of a living history filled with imaginative determination

Longleng, June 7 (MExN): The 72nd Phom Day (Peace Day) and 4th Triennial Peace Summit was commemorated at public ground Longleng on June 6. The occasion was graced by Dr Wati Aier, Convenor Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) as the special guest. Dr Wati Aier is also the Former Principal, Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS); Asia Pacific Ambassador and Recipient of Baptist World Alliance Peace Award, stated a DIPR report.

Dr Wati in his message said that the day is the testament of a living history filled with imaginative determination. “72 years ago, your grandparents prayed and dreamed of a world that would carry our culture forward. Now, it has come true. And in order to progress and move forward, the weak people now have access to the most magnificent ecosystem imaginable; this is a community that is incredibly dynamic and vital,” he said. 

Dr Wati said, “You have pushed the future from the prospective, and this is how history is made up of materials—sometimes very unlikely materials—but in the eyes of people looking down at you, they will say, “This is so significant,” but you know this powerless people have thrown the powers of the world as the Bible says.”

He continued, “Conversely, geopolitics is a popular topic of conversation. It’s not congregation to examine post-mordenizem side by side with it; it’s the language of the day. You have the right to your identity because no one can have their identity at the price of another’s. For this reason, I recognise your right to an open and vibrant identity, just as you have the right to mine.”

“Many Nagas have cut themselves off from the outside world, and you don’t follow our example or our teachings. We have taught you many incorrect things, so make amends and move on. You must accept that Phom Community is not a second stream. This is really sociological—you have to feel good about yourself in order to be liberated. Although colonisation has limited the Naga people and there are still numerous forms of colonisation among them, you have been marginalised and limited despite believing that you are important today,” he added. 

Dr Wati also said, “We might argue that history is a living entity since it is composed of visionary people who dare to make things happen. Your history and culture are alive. Let’s continue to encourage and show respect to our women as a culture group as we move forward.”

“The 72nd year has made a significant change in the history of the Phom People. Do not allow God to be absent from it. Please pray that God will bless the Phom, the eastern Naga, and all the Naga people for his glory, kuknalim,” he added.

Dr Wati unfurled the Phom Day flag and also inaugurated the exhibition stall. Earlier, He also took salute from the parade contingent comprising of Yingli College NCC, Bautung Government Higher secondary school, Shamakok Mission School, Christian School, St Joseph, Good Shepherd School, Vision Vale and Phom Lempong School.

Roles of government towards progressive peace keeping
Addressing on roles of government towards progressive peace keeping, EAC Longleng Imkongnukla, acknowledge the pioneers who have decided to have peace and loyalty to the government. 

She said Government in state level make decisions which is important for providing social justice, human rights and to understand the problem rather delaying with the syndrome. “Government also provides education, awareness on peace building and fosters a culture of peace and economy development. The motive of the government is to provide economic development such as infrastructure of roads electricity etc,” she added. 

“Living in the age of democracy, government stands for the voice of the people and gives peace to the people. Government alone cannot do so we need the support from civil society and organization.”

She encouraged gathered to forgive our enemies and work together for prosperity and to live a life that glorify God.

Significance of Phom Day, my legacy for future generation was address by Ex-Minister Matpong Phom.    Phom Day way forward vision for present generation was shared by PSC, Phom Lungvang Pangthai. Towards the Platinum; Peace beneficiaries the Obligations was addressed by Nuklu Phom, Phom Day Commission. President Phom People Council YB Angam said the welcome and introductory. President Chang, Khulei Satshang, also delivered solitary message.

All Phom Gazette Officer (APGO) presented the N.I. Jamir Academic excellence award to Chujei Phom for securing Top 8th in HSSLC (Arts) and N Lenmei Angh, Gold medalist M.Sc Geology, Chingmei Konyak, EAC in recognition and sincere appreciation for the services towards the community, and Champong Phom, torch barrier in the field of Sports.

Brotherhood from Tamlu Town performed a Peace folk fusion. Culture troupes from Bura Namsang and Phomla Hoichem women folks from 59 villages performed a unit folk dance.

Earlier, the Phom Day Anthem was sung by Leinak Baptist Church. Invocation was pronounced by Chingthai Pastor, Police Baptist Church Longleng.

Other highlights were the day-long peace promoting games including Marathon race, Tug of war, women’s volleyball and man’s football were held. Phom Students Conference conducted a painting and easy writing competition.