Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio attended the Tsüngkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival in Shamator and inaugurated the new deputy commissioner’s office complex.
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DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the second day of Tsüngkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival at Shamator and inaugurated the new deputy commissioner’s office complex along with five key district offices.
A DIPR update on Friday stated that the festival celebrations were attended by Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton; Minister for Forest and Environment CL John; MLA and Advisor for HG&CD and F&ES S Kiusumew; Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports S Keoshu Yimchunger; President of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) Sword Vashum; President of Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) A Chingmak Chang, along with other dignitaries and officials.
Addressing the gathering, Rio extended Tsüngkamnyo greetings and blessings to the Yimkhiung community and stated that the festival symbolises happiness, friendship and harmony, not only within families but also among tribes across boundaries, fostering peace and unity.
Wishing the people a bountiful harvest in 2026, he urged them to uphold these values.
The chief minister reminded that the Mini Hornbill Festival, which began as a roadshow concept, has evolved into a globally recognised cultural platform, with the Hornbill Festival now enjoying national and international prominence.
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He recalled that the distinct identity and strong governance traditions of the Nagas were acknowledged even during the British era, leading to the enactment of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873 to safeguard Naga customs and traditions.
Referring to recent visa restrictions faced by international participants at the Hornbill Festival, Rio said that the state Cabinet had written to the Centre seeking relaxation of such norms.
He also spoke on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 and called for collective efforts towards all-round development.
A major highlight of the programme was the historic declaration of friendship and brotherhood between Tangkhul Naga Long and Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), which Rio described as a true reflection of the state government’s motto of ‘Unity.’
He expressed hope that the bond would pave the way for lasting peace and harmony across Naga-inhabited areas.
TNL president Sword Vashum thanked the YTC for the invitation and, in a spirit of reconciliation, sought forgiveness for past misunderstandings.
Emphasising the shared history and brotherhood of the two communities, he assured stronger ties and invited the YTC to participate in the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival on February 15.
YTC president S Throngso expressed gratitude to the Tangkhul delegation, accepted the apology extended by TNL and reciprocated with an apology for any past wrongs.
Stressing the need to bury the past, he called for working together for peace and unity. The declaration of mutual respect and understanding was formally read out by the YTC president.
ENPO president A Chingmak Chang lauded the historic friendship, stating that such unity strengthens bonds across eastern Nagaland, while advisor S Kiusumew highlighted the cultural significance of Tsüngkamnyo and urged the younger generation to act responsibly in an era of peace and development.
The programme concluded with cultural performances by Tangkhul and Yimkhiung troupes showcasing their rich heritage.
Earlier in the day, Rio inaugurated the new DC office complex along with offices of the superintendent of police, district public relations officer, district youth resources officer, district planning officer (Planning) and district sericulture office.
He said that the facilities would strengthen governance and improve service delivery in the district.
Acknowledging the efforts of engineers, contractors, workers and the local community, the chief minister said that Shamator was created to bring administration closer to the people and ensure balanced development.
Stating that the deputy commissioner is the principal administrative and executive authority at the district level, Rio asserted that the establishment of the offices was a critical step towards transparent, efficient and citizen-centric governance.
He added that the setting up of treasury and sub-treasury offices would depend on transactional requirements.
Urging citizens to collectively safeguard and utilise the facilities, Rio expressed hope that the new office complex would usher in a new era of effective administration and sustainable development for Shamator district.