Our Correspondent
Kohima, Nov. 2 (EMN): Governor of Nagaland, Prof. Jagdish Mukhi, said India has embraced inclusiveness and pluralism, which has proven to be the core element in forging a national identity based on common values and purpose through a constitutional and democratic framework, thus giving tangible shape to the vision of the founding leaders of the nation.
"We cannot deny the evidence that pluralism and inclusion, particularly the inclusion of women and marginalised section of society, is correlated to more responsive governments and more sustainable growth and development," he added.
He stated this while welcoming President of India, Droupadi Murmu to Nagaland, during the civic reception programme held for her in Kohima, on Wednesday.
He said the country takes pride in the diversity that makes the fabric of modern India, a diversity that is reflected in the customs and social structure, language, religion and ethnicities.
"This is a key asset that we hold to unlock India’s potential and propel the nation to rise in global significance," he said.
Mukhi stated that the common thread of shared cultural values and traditions that coalesces people of varied geographical regions across the nation, surpasses all barriers with the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ and strengthens the unity and integrity of the "great" nation.
"It is with great pleasure and honour that I extend a warm welcome to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu Ji to Nagaland, the Land of Festivals," Mukhi greeted, adding, "A land of tribes, this beautiful state’s rich heritage is embedded in its diverse culture, wealth of flora and fauna, picturesque landscapes and natural resources and the indomitable spirit of the people."
Stating that Nagaland is also known all over the country as the Land of Festivals, he said the diversity of its tribal community divided into various ethnic groups, each with distinct culture and heritage, creates a year-long atmosphere of celebrations.
Nagas celebrate ethnic-related traditional festivals which revolve around agriculture, as a vast majority of the population is directly dependent on it, Mukhi said.
As India celebrates 75 glorious years of independence and marches towards the next milestone, the vision and mission of an Atmanirbhar Bharat is surely in the making, he said.
"The collective participation of every citizen of the country from the upper echelon to the grass-roots will pave the way for greater nation building and ensure that India emerges as a dynamic and robust democratic polity," he concluded.