DIMAPUR — As part of the "Ek Bharat
Shreshtha Bharat" initiative, Raj Bhavan Assam, in the presence of
Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Transport and Fisheries Minister Keshab
Mahanta, Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, and Power Minister Nandita Garlosa,
celebrated Nagaland Statehood Day at the Kar Bhawan Auditorium on December 3.
The celebrations aimed to promote unity in diversity across
the country, according to a press release issued by Raj Bhavan Assam.
Acharya, on the occasion, highlighted that Nagaland is a
land rich in natural beauty, diverse traditions, and heritage. As a key part of
India’s "Seven Sisters," he noted, Nagaland holds significance not
only for its natural resources but also for its cultural diversity. He also spoke
about the Hornbill Festival and mentioned the contributions of Rani Gaidinliu.
In a similar programme, Raj Bhavan, Chennai, in the spirit
of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, celebrated Nagaland and Assam statehood days
jointly, with participation from residents of both states residing in Tamil
Nadu, on December 2.
RN Ravi, Governor of Tamil Nadu, was the chief guest. The
event featured performances of Mungyangta from Nagaland and Bardoishikla from
Assam. Wapangtoshi, president of the North East India Welfare Association Chennai,
and Deben Daloi, president of the Assam Association Chennai, were also in
attendance.
Speaking on the occasion, Ravi urged students from Nagaland
and Assam studying in Chennai to acquire at least a functional knowledge of the
Tamil language. He highlighted the connection between the people of Nagaland
and Assam and Tamil Nadu, particularly in terms of hospitality.
The governor recounted a narrative from a 102-year-old man
from Nagaland, who shared how the Nagas and Assamese people have been good neighbours
for generations. He highlighted how they exchanged products through the barter
system and sometimes entrusted their belongings to their Assamese friends for
safekeeping until their return.
On this occasion, Keviletuo Yano Richard from Nagaland and
Gautam Deori from Assam were felicitated by the governor for their
contributions to their respective communities in Chennai for over a decade.
