Be warriors of unity and peace — Rio tells Sumis

Eastern Mirror Desk
Dimapur, Nov. 14: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday called upon the Sumi community to be warriors of unity, peace, reconciliation and all-round development, and play a leading role in bringing permanent peace.

Speaking on the occasion of Ahuna-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival at Zunheboto on Nov. 14, Rio stated that Sumi warriors were known for their bravery in the olden days and recalled that he had named Zunheboto as the Land of Warriors during his earlier tenure as CM of the state. With the advent of civilisation and Christianity, the people should become modern-day warriors and champions by leading the people in noble and just causes, he added while calling upon the people to work collectively for the betterment of Naga society.

“You are special, you are hard working. The story of the Sema Naga Labour Corps 1917-18 is known to all Nagas. Out of about 2000 Labour Corps, almost half of that were Sumis. This means you are warriors, adventurous and hard working,” said Rio. He also appreciated the contributions of the Sumis to the Naga society.

Expounding the meaning of Ahuna as the post-harvest festival, the CM said that harvest is enjoyed by hard work and sweat which in turn signifies work culture. “Everyone has to work and eat. Without harvesting, if we borrow from others, we will not be blessed. Therefore, work culture is hard work through toil and sweat and such festivals are a reason to celebrate the fruits of your hard work,” Rio stated.

Asserting that throughout history, Nagas were known to be independent with their own system of democracy in the form of village republics, the CM said that the British colonials did not disturb Naga culture, tradition and way of life though they came to Naga country. He said that over time, the Nagas understood that their culture, tradition and identity were different and so the Naga national movement started.

Rio recalled that the Government of India had recognised Naga history as “unique” and that the Naga issue is a political issue which needs political settlement. He therefore called upon the people to ensure that ‘our rich cultural heritage, tradition, songs, dances, attires, motifs, arts and crafts and cuisine are not only preserved but promoted so that the younger generations do not lose touch with our history.’ Keeping this in mind, he said that the government had decided to have mini Hornbills in all the districts coinciding with the respective tribal festivals so that true meaning can be brought to the phrase ‘Nagaland – Land of Festivals.’ He opined that such festivals are a good platform to showcase ‘our traditions which will also promote tourism and boost the local economy.’

The CM expressed delight on learning from the media that about 200 species of butterflies had been recorded from Zunheboto area. He encouraged the people to work together to preserve the fauna and promote butterfly tourism so that the district become a destination for lepidopterists, butterfly lovers and tourists.

Calling for preservation of the environment to check climate change, Rio stated that the government of Nagaland has decided to ban the use of single-use plastics. “We have to be plastic-free. We have to come out with alternatives such as bamboo and cane baskets, carry bags and containers” he said, calling upon the Deputy Commissioner and the elected members of the district to work together to identify villages and persons who are expert in bamboo and cane crafts/weaving so that alternatives to plastics can be promoted and used. He also called upon the youths to venture into this sector by availing government assistance and bank loans.

Rio further assured that the government will work for the people and promised to construct a multi-purpose hall in Zunheboto town as appealed by the Sumi Hoho. He called upon the people to donate land in the greater interest of development.

Earlier, Minister for Agriculture and Cooperation, G. Kaito Aye welcomed the CM and his colleagues and expressed gratitude for the concern shown towards the people of Zunheboto. The event was marked by various dances and music, traditional songs and dances, and a grand Ahuna feast.