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Neiphiu Rio, TR Zeliang and Zhaleo Rio are seen along with the clan members during the 13th general conference of the Mera/ Sechü/ Rau clan in Jalukie town on January 8.[/caption]
Dimapur, Jan. 13 (EMN): After seventy seven years of the clan’s first meeting in the year 1942, the 13th general conference of the Mera- Sechü- Rau clan Nagaland was convened on January 8 in the residence of Denis Elunglung, Jalukie town, and hosted by the Nagaland Zeliang Rau. The historic event of the clan’s meet was marked by the presence of more than 2000 clan members including Neiphiu Rio, TR Zeliang and Zhaleo Rio.
A press release issued by a clan member Dr. Hedungkiebe stated that both TR Zeliang and Neiphiu Rio, in their speeches, have univocally urged the members to carry out research works on the clan’s histories seriously for deeper understanding of the clan origin and family tree. While thanking the organisers for their achievements, they also shared similar views that there is no permanent friend or foe in a democratic world.
Recalling a popular proverb “Blood is thicker than water,” TR Zeliang stated that blood relation cannot be replaced or avoided adding as long as humanity exist in the society, they could also have stronger bond among the clan members for a better future.
Neiphiu Rio also urged the members to uplift each other as one clan wherever possible. Of the many, he cited an example in the field of education saying, “We must collectively support students if there is anyone facing difficulty in pursuing education due to financial problems.” He went on saying. “If we could nurture up bright students among our clan members to lead us; we could have a stronger and brighter Mera- Sechü- Rau clan.”
In his welcome speech, Denis Elunglung stated that it was a great day for blood brothers to gather in the true spirit of brotherhood, which according to him was a mark of unity.
“God has blessed us with few prominent leaders for which we must gratefully uphold each other as brothers lest the blessing will go to others hands,” Denis said.
Earlier, the clan’s gathering began with a prayer said by Gohing, pastor of Puilo New Baptist Church. Rau, Mera and Sechü Yieko entertained the crowd with folk songs, followed by presidential speech delivered by Rüüngutuo and reports from the secretary, treasurer and research committee.
Kethozhapu Sahu pronounced the vote of thanks and the programme concluded with a prayer of blessings by Heuzieteusing on behalf of Rau elders.
