WOKHA — The prize
distribution ceremony for the 6th Hornbill Angling Festival, organised by the
Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in collaboration with the Anglers
Association Nagaland (AAN) and hosted by District Anglers Wokha Nagaland
(DAWN), was held at Mangsungtchu, Ashaa village, Doyang Reservoir, Wokha, on
Saturday.
A total of 253 participants, including individuals from
Bangalore, the state of Assam, and various districts of Nagaland, participated
in the event, with Bemo Jami emerging as the winner.
The programme was attended by Dr. Chumben Murry, Advisor to
the Chief Minister and senior vice president and coordinator of NDPP, as the
special guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Murry remarked that anglers
are generally peaceful and patient individuals. He encouraged the angling
community to foster peace, love, and mutual support to contribute to overall
progress.
He urged the community to preserve and cherish the ecosystem
rather than exploit it. He also commended the state government and Chief
Minister Neiphiu Rio for the international recognition of the Hornbill
Festival.
At the same time, he expressed regret over the fragmented
nature of Naga society, highlighting the lack of unity among overground leaders
and the inability of tribal leaders to make unified decisions for the welfare
of the state and its community.
He highlighted the threats of boycotts faced by the Hornbill
Festival from various tribes if their demands are not met. He urged the
community to view the festival as a celebration for all the people of Nagaland
and beyond, emphasising the importance of focusing on the development of the
people rather than just the leaders or the government.
Dr. Murry called for a unified voice to achieve the
long-awaited Naga political solution, expressing his belief that it would help
resolve issues and foster unity.
In a brief speech, the Joint Director of Fisheries and
Aquatic Resources, Neitho-o Koutsu, congratulated the participants, AAN, and
DAWN for the successful 6th edition of the Nagaland Hornbill Angling Festival.
He informed that the department is initiating studies on
fish habitats and aquatic life in collaboration with various institutions and
research centres. He also commended DAWN for its efforts in raising awareness about
halting dynamic fishing in the Doyang district.
Derek D'Souza, vice president of the All India Game Fishing
Association (AIGFA), participated as a technical support expert and
acknowledged the participants for expanding the platform.
He highlighted the uniqueness of angling, noting that it
does not involve studying an opponent's weaknesses but instead emphasises hope,
dedication, and patience. He encouraged anglers to foster relationships and
broaden friendships through the sport.
