The Phom community celebrated the 74th Phom Peace Day in Kohima and Longleng with a call to preserve peace.
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DIMAPUR — The 74th Phom Peace Day, commemorating the end of the headhunting era and marking the beginning of peace and harmony among the Phom community, was observed in Longleng and Kohima on Saturday.
The day was observed at the public ground in Longleng, with Deputy Commissioner of Longleng W Manpai Phom as the special guest.
The special guest unfurled the Phom Day flag, which was followed by the presentation of the Phom Day Anthem by the Medical Ward Fellowship. The special guest delivered the Phom Day message and took the salute from the parade contingents composed of students from various schools and higher secondary schools under Longleng town, Scouts and Guides, and Yingli College, Longleng.
In his address, the DC urged attendees to remember the core significance of peace in the Phom area and beyond.
While highlighting the need to keep in mind "what we are and who we are", he advised the gathering to celebrate the day like their elders with commitment. He stated that the purpose of Phom Day, as envisioned by past elders and visionary leaders, was to foster peace and harmony so that the community may receive blessings from God.
He reminded the gathering that peace in the current generation depends on individual conduct in all roles, including government officials, public leaders, and village functionaries.
The special guest also presented the NI Jamir Academic Excellence Awards during the occasion.
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The significance of Phom Day and its legacy was proposed by former President of the Phom People's Council, P Pukyong Phom, while a solidarity message was delivered by the Commandant of the 12th NAP (IR) Chingtok, Imtitoshi.
After the conclusion of the event, a penalty shoot-out and a volleyball exhibition match were organised by the organising committee.
In Kohima, the programme was held at the Kohima Phom Baptist Church, where Deputy Commissioner of Kohima B Henok Buchem attended as the guest of honour, according to a DIPR report.
Addressing the gathering, Buchem remarked that the present generation is fortunate to enjoy the fruits of peace made possible through the visionary leadership and sacrifices of their forefathers. He said the occasion serves not only as a celebration but also as a reminder of the responsibility to preserve and promote peace.
He urged the community to be not only peacekeepers but also practitioners of peace who actively uphold and promote harmony. He encouraged everyone to reflect on whether they are truly carrying forward the legacy of peace established by earlier generations.
Buchem also expressed concern over persisting divisions within the community, including misunderstandings, land disputes, boundary issues, and ownership conflicts.
He pointed out that the true significance of the celebration lies in embracing forgiveness, reconciliation, and collective efforts to resolve such challenges. He called upon the community to remain united in promoting peace and harmony across Phom land.