Naga political issue is probably closer than ever towards solution, says Kaito Aye

[caption id="attachment_263770" align="aligncenter" width="565"] G Kaito Aye (centre) along with Metsubo Jamir and Imnatiba takes part in the ceremonial pulling of vine (Sungzu Atsutepba) on the second day of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption] Our Correspondent Mokokchung, Aug. 2 (EMN): Minister of Agriculture and Co-operation G Kaito Aye on Friday asserted that the much-delayed Naga political issue is probably closer than ever towards solution and urged the people to be bounded by a sense of unity and collective priority of the Naga community more than ever at this juncture. The minister was speaking at the Tsungremong festival at Imkongmeren Sports Complex in Mokokchung as the special guest. He said that NDPP-led PDA government under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has been working tirelessly as an active facilitator in the ongoing Indo-Naga peace talk. He added that various Naga mass-based organisations have been playing a positive role in the peace process. [caption id="attachment_263771" align="aligncenter" width="565"] G Kaito Aye (centre) along with Metsubo Jamir and Imnatiba takes part in the ceremonial pulling of vine (Sungzu Atsutepba) on the second day of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption] “The collective priority is settlement that is honourable and acceptable, that will bring a lasting solution,” the minister said. However, he warned that the best efforts will not yield the desired result if Nagas cannot make sacrifices by rising above individualism, ‘clanism’ and tribalism. In this connection, Aye said: “We the Nagas have to be united in vision, in culture and in purpose to continue to move forward.” [caption id="attachment_263775" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Lotha Hoho presenting a traditional cultural dance on the second of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption] He also called upon the Ao people, who are known as pioneers, to once again to ahead and take the lead in bringing about unity in the Naga society. The veteran politician observed that he has witnessed radical changing time in the Naga society, and before he lays down to rest (retire), wants to leave behind a legacy of hope, unity, peace and prosperity. “We don’t want you to suffer what we have suffered and shall do our best to ensure that the future of the Naga people is secure,” he asserted. [caption id="attachment_263769" align="alignleft" width="320"] Minister G Kaito Aye addressing the second Day of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption] Aye asserted that Tsungremong celebration is more than just feasting and merry-making but signifies unity within the Ao villages with strong bearing on community building. He added mini hornbill festival is one of many initiatives of the State government to ensure that “we do not lose touch with our root” and reminded the people that “it is the responsibility of every Naga to carry forward the cultural heritage, tradition, songs and dance that speak of the life and time of our forefathers because culture is our identity.” Minister Metsubo Jamir also spoke at the event. The celebration was marked by cultural dance competition between the various ranges of Mokokchung. Cultural troupes from Chang and Lotha Hohos as well as Assam participated in the grand celebration.

34th Longtrok Senden Ungma cultural competition

The 34th Longtrok Senden Ungma cultural competition dubbed as ‘Kongshit Ken Tetoktepba’ was held on Thursday evening coinciding with Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill festival at Babu Tzu Amphitheatre, Ungma village in Mokokchung. The event was graced by Imnatiba, Advisor Industries & Commerce, Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship as the special invitee. [caption id="attachment_263768" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Jangpetkong range cultural troupe presenting their traditional dance on the second of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption] Addressing the gathering, Imnatiba stated rich ethos has survived because of “folklore and songs of our great forefathers and it should be upheld and passed down to the younger generations because it is the root that identifies us.” While asserting that Ungma has a bigger role to promote and preserve the rich heritage, he acknowledged the Longtrok Senden Ungma for organising the programme that will help the next generation inherit the rich traditional practices and customs. [caption id="attachment_263767" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Jangpetkong range cultural troupe presenting their traditional dance on the second of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption] The Advisor also urged the people of Ungma to make the village the nerve centre of learning the rich ethos of the Ao people and a centre where people can learn and continue to practice the rich heritage. “We should not be a stranger and alien to our culture,” said Imnatiba while urging the young people to learn and promote their culture. In the cultural competition, Salukum Rogo won the championship title while United Soyim Club was declared runners-up. Various clubs under Ungma village participated in the competition. [caption id="attachment_263773" align="aligncenter" width="565"]  [/caption] [caption id="attachment_263774" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Chang Hoho (CKS) presenting a traditional cultural dance on the second of Tsungremong-cum-Mini Hornbill celebration at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on August 2.[/caption]