Neiphiu Rio hopes new interlocutor Ajit Lal will help move Naga peace talks forward and find a solution to the political issue
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KOHIMA — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday expressed hope that the appointment of a new interlocutor for Naga peace talks and discussions at the Group of Ministers' level would help find a solution to the protracted Naga political issue, even as he called for greater unity among the tribes.
Addressing the first general conference of the Tenyimi Women Union Nagaland (TWUN) at Kohima village, Rio acknowledged that Nagas were passing through a difficult period and stressed the need for collective efforts to strengthen unity.
He urged the Tenyimi community, comprising five tribes—Angami, Chakhesang, Pochury, Rengma and Zeliang—to take the lead in fostering wider Naga unity.
Maintaining that unity among the Tenyimi communities could inspire other tribes, Rio said the present situation called for greater understanding and collective responsibility.
Referring to the Naga political issue, he expressed hope that the appointment of a new interlocutor, along with discussions involving ministers and other stakeholders, would help move the peace process towards a solution.
Also read: Neiphiu Rio calls for all Naga groups to join peace talks
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The Centre has appointed Ajit Lal as interlocutor for the Naga peace talks.
Rio also urged Tenyimi women to take a leading role in preserving cultural identity, strengthening community relationships and guiding younger generations.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Honouring Roots, One Voice, United for a Stronger Tomorrow,” he described women as custodians of Naga culture and traditions, whose influence extended from the family to the larger society.
The chief minister said that traditional attire, designs, patterns, textiles and other cultural expressions had largely been preserved and passed down by women through generations. He stressed the need to sustain these traditions while adapting to changing times.
Highlighting women's growing participation in public service and education, Rio said their representation in government employment had increased from 18.2% about 20 years ago to 31% in the latest figures.
He also pointed to the performance of female students in educational institutions and their increasing participation in competitive examinations, including those conducted by the Nagaland Public Service Commission and the Nagaland Staff Selection Board.
The chief minister further highlighted women's contribution to economic activities through handicrafts, traditional textiles, food processing, hospitality, tourism and agriculture.
He underscored the importance of preserving indigenous languages, particularly Tenyidie, and encouraged women to teach their respective mother tongues to their children. While urging the Tenyimi community to strengthen its linguistic identity, he stressed respect for the identities of other Naga tribes.
On population enumeration, Rio cautioned that inaccurate census figures could have implications for future political representation and the voter base. Citing figures for Kohima district, he said that 7,432 houses in urban areas and 1,545 in rural areas were vacant, and urged residents to ensure proper enumeration.
He also referred to the protections under Article 371(A) and the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, stating that these safeguarded the land and customary rights of the people.
Meanwhile, Advisor for Science and Technology Kuzholuzo Nienu said the community's heritage was reflected not only in traditional attire, folk songs, festivals and customary practices but also in the values and collective responsibilities inherited from previous generations.
He cautioned that modernisation should not disconnect younger generations from their ancestral land and cultural identity, adding that unity did not require uniformity or the surrender of individual tribal identities.
Nienu also called for greater participation of women in decision-making and leadership, saying their experiences, concerns and aspirations must be given due recognition.
TWUN president Zhonelu Tunyi said the union was formed on September 15, 2023, among the five constituent tribes and was not a political organisation. She called on women to strengthen their bonds and work collectively towards their empowerment.
President of Tenyimi Union Nagaland, KT Vilie, also stressed the importance of strengthening unity, promoting Tenyidie and ensuring proper population enumeration.
The conference was hosted by the Angami Women Organisation. On the occasion, Rio released the TUN male shawl, while Nienu declared the TWUN mekhala and necklace. Ruokuoheü Miachieo was announced as the new TWUN president for the 2026-29 tenure.
With PTI inputs