Viswema, Dec. 13 (EMN): Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Neiphiu Rio has emphasised the need for improvising the rich culture and traditions so that it is in tandem with the fast pace of the advancing world.
Speaking as the chief guest at the silver jubilee celebrations of the Southern Angami Youth Organization (SAYO) at John Higher Secondary School ground, Viswema village, on December 13, Rio asserted the need to improvise traditions and urged the youth to spearhead towards this venture.
It may be mentioned that the SAYO 25 years was celebrated on the theme “Rekindling Traditions.”
“There is always a need to improvise our culture and traditions so that it is in tune with the progress of the modern era, and further for the present generation to find its adaptability,” Rio said mentioning that culture and traditions are our identity. He shared his apprehension that Naga identity would be lost if the people fail to improvise culture and traditions.
Stating that what has been practised by forefathers in the past cannot be the same today, Rio, however, sensed the urgency of reviving the aged old traditional practices into how it fits best for the present generation to go along with it.
“By improvising our culture and traditions, it will become easier for the upcoming generation to cope with it. And this has become necessary of our times,” the MP said making a reference of improvising the Naga attires, songs, dance and even food habits.
To the youth, he told them to raise above their comfort zones and shoulder the responsibility of the present times. “The youth are the backbone and voice of the Naga society. You are our hope and future,” Rio added.
Addressing a host of youth members including both men and women, Rio also advised them not to undermine games and sports activities, but to actively take part in sports with the attempt to make it a career. He regarded sports as a profession where a lot youth can make the maximum benefits if taken seriously.
The MP Lok Sabha, on the day, lauded the pioneers and all those who rendered their services in bringing SAYO thus far.
Parliamentary Secretary, Vikho-o Yhoshü, who graced the celebration as guest of honour along with Parliamentary Secretary, Kropol Vitsu, lauded SAYO for attaining 25 years.
“Let us be strong as we march ahead with greater responsibilities for our society,” Yhoshü urged.
In his address, Kropol Vitsu ha stressed on the need to preserve the Naga heritage.
“It cannot be the same in sticking to our culture as to what our forefathers practised. Nevertheless, the challenge lies in us to maintain our identity if not get lost in this vast world,” Vitsu stated.
“In rekindling traditions, the first and foremost thing is to respect our culture,” he added.
President of the Angami Youth Organisation (AYO), Neinguvotuo Krose, while congratulating SAYO for attaining 25 years, also thanked SAYO members for its contribution towards the welfare of the Angamis and the Naga at large, adding that SAYO has been an important pillar of the AYO till date.
“AYO was formed to speak for the rights of the Angami people and further to protect its members. The youth body started by our pioneers is still strong and very much active,” Krose said.
The SAYO presidential address was delivered by Neisizo Kuotsu, while SAPO president Neiketou Kiso and the council chairman of Viswema village also addressed the gathering.
The inaugural programme, chaired by convenor of organising committee Vitsorel Lcho, commenced with invocation pronounced by Rev. Atha Neikha, pastor of Viswema Baptist Church, while Keneikrul and friends presented the SAYO theme song. The vote of thanks was tendered by Sizo Kire, co-convenor, organising committee.
Earlier, the chief guest also unveiled a monolith commemorating the silver jubilee of SAYO, which was dedicated by John Zao, pastor, Christian Revival Church, Jakhama.
