Here is speech by Z. Royim, President of Naga National Council (NNC)- Parent Body, on the occasion of Naga Independence Day.
My dear Naga brothers and sisters,
On this historic occasion of the 80th Naga Independence Day, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt respects to the Naga people, both at home and across the world.
This day is not merely an anniversary to be observed. It is a solemn occasion to remember our history, honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, reaffirm our identity and reflect upon the responsibilities that rest upon the present generation.
Eighty years have passed since the Naga people declared their independence. Through these eight decades, our people have witnessed profound changes, difficult circumstances, sacrifices and divisions. Yet, throughout this long journey, the consciousness of being a distinct people and the desire to preserve our identity, dignity and political rights have remained deeply rooted.
The Naga National Council (NNC), as the parent body of the Naga national movement, carries a historic responsibility entrusted to it by generations of our people. It is our duty to preserve the political history of the Naga people, uphold our national identity and remain faithful to the principles and aspirations that have guided our national journey.
On this solemn occasion, we remember with profound respect all those who sacrificed their lives, their families, their homes, their freedom and their personal interests for the cause of the Naga people. Many sacrifices were made without recognition or expectation of reward. Their contribution forms an inseparable part of our history, and we must ensure that the younger generation understands the price that earlier generations paid.
Remembering our past must also compel us to reflect honestly upon the present. We must have the courage to acknowledge our shortcomings, learn from our mistakes and ensure that the sacrifices of the past are not rendered meaningless by division, selfishness or indifference.
The Naga people have always drawn strength from their communities, traditional institutions, customs, values and strong sense of collective responsibility. Our diversity of tribes, languages and traditions is part of our richness. It must never become a permanent barrier to our common understanding and unity.
At this critical juncture, I appeal to all Nagas to rise above personal interests, factional differences and temporary political considerations. The interests of the Naga people must remain greater than those of any individual, group or institution. Our differences should be addressed through dialogue, mutual respect and wisdom rather than bitterness and division.
The younger generation carries a particularly important responsibility. Our youth are the inheritors of our history and the custodians of our future. I urge them to study and understand the history of our people, respect the sacrifices of earlier generations and face the modern world with education, discipline, courage and confidence. A generation that understands its history will be better prepared to protect its identity and make responsible decisions for the future.
I also appeal to our elders, traditional leaders, intellectuals, church leaders, women, students and civil society to contribute sincerely to the welfare and future of our people. The preservation of our identity and the advancement of our collective aspirations cannot be the responsibility of a few alone. Every Naga has a role to play.
Our national aspirations must also be accompanied by moral responsibility. We cannot demand justice while practising injustice among ourselves. We cannot speak of freedom while tolerating corruption, dishonesty, exploitation and discrimination in our own society. The values that we uphold as a people must be reflected in our conduct.
We must therefore work towards a society founded upon integrity, justice, mutual respect and responsibility. We must protect our land and natural resources, preserve our customs and cultural heritage, strengthen our communities and create conditions in which our children can receive quality education and opportunities to build a dignified future.
As the parent body of the Naga national movement, the Naga National Council remains conscious of the historic responsibility placed upon it. That responsibility requires steadfastness, wisdom and integrity. It also requires us to approach the challenges of the present with a clear understanding of our history while remaining committed to peaceful, principled and responsible political engagement.
The 80th Naga Independence Day should therefore be more than a ceremonial occasion. Let it be a moment of renewal—a renewal of our commitment to our people, our history, our identity and the generations yet to come.
Let us remember those who came before us with gratitude. Let us acknowledge the responsibilities entrusted to us today. And let us prepare the younger generation to carry forward our heritage with wisdom and courage.
The road ahead may not be easy. But the history of the Naga people demonstrates that perseverance and conviction can sustain a people through difficult circumstances. Our task is to ensure that the coming generations inherit not only the memories of our struggles but also the courage, dignity and responsibility that sustained our people.
As we mark the 80th Naga Independence Day, let us stand together with dignity and hope. Let us preserve our identity, respect our history, strengthen our unity and remain committed to a peaceful and just future for the Naga people. May we have the wisdom to learn from the past, the courage to face the present and the vision to prepare for the future.
With profound respect for all those who sacrificed before us, and with renewed hope for generations yet unborn, I extend my sincere greetings to every Naga on this historic occasion.
Long live the Naga people. Long live the Naga national spirit. May peace, unity, dignity and justice guide our common journey.
Z. Royim
President of Naga National Council- Parent Body