Neiphiu Rio addressing the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah celebration at
Thonoknyu town on Tuesday.
DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on
Tuesday underscored the importance of festivals in promoting peace, unity and
harmony among communities.
Addressing the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah, a festival of feast and
rest of the Khiamniungan community, celebration at Thonoknyu town in Noklak
district, the chief minister called upon everyone to use such occasions to
strengthen bonds and foster mutual respect.
Extending festive greetings, Rio also called upon the people
of Noklak, the state's frontier district situated along the Indo-Myanmar
border, to prioritise peace and harmony as the foundation for progress and
development, and contribute towards the overall development of the state, a
DIPR report stated.
He said festivals like Khaozaosie Hok-Ah are not just a
reminder of “our deep-rooted traditions but also a platform to unite as one
people, keeping peace and harmony at the forefront.
“It is through such unity that we can bring progress and
prosperity to Nagaland,” Rio said.
The chief minister also urged the younger generation to take
pride in their heritage and actively work towards preserving the rich culture
and traditions passed down by their forefathers.
Youth can play a vital role in carrying forward the legacy
of the Naga people, he added.
Reiterating his commitment to fostering an environment of
peace and inclusivity, Rio further encouraged all citizens to celebrate
festival responsibly, and to reflect on the shared values that bind the diverse
communities of Nagaland together.
The chief minister also took to X to inform about the event.
“Happy to join the Khiamniungan community at Thonoknyu in celebrating
Khaozaosie-Hok-Ah Festival - a vibrant occasion of feasting and relaxation
after agricultural toil. It beautifully showcased their rich cultural heritage
and unity. Wishing them continued success and prosperity,” Rio wrote.
Other highlights of the celebration included festival
greetings by host Benei M Lamthiu, MLA; significance of Khaozaosie Hok-Ah
festival presented by former treasurer ofKhiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC), M Ngon, and welcome address by KTC
president, Ngon.
Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, Arikumba also addressed the
festive gathering.
Later, the chief minister also inaugurated the handicraft
stalls and inspected the cultural troupes.
Among others, the event was attended by Minister of Forest,
Environment and Climate Change, CL John; Advisor of Geology and Mining and
DUDA, W Chingang Konyak; Advisor of School Education and SCERT, Dr.
Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, and a host of officials.
The festival, organised by the Khiamniungan Tribal Council,
was aided by the state government.
