Unity Mini Hornbill Festival kicks off in Peren

DIMAPUR — The inaugural programme of the Unity Mini Hornbill Festival 2025 was held at the DC's office complex, Peren, on Thursday.

Som Kamei, Planning Adviser, North Eastern Council Secretariat, Ministry of DoNER, was the special guest, while Zandi Domta, president of NZPO, was the chief host, a DIPR report stated.

In his inaugural address, Kamei underlined the importance of unity, stating that the present circumstances call for stronger bonds among the Zeliangrong communities and the Kuki brothers and sisters of Peren district.

He stressed that unity is essential for safeguarding cultural, social, and land rights, and for the collective progress of society, the state, and the nation.

He also emphasised that harmony among communities must be built on mutual understanding, respect, and accommodation without infringing upon one another’s rights.

Kamei expressed satisfaction that several road projects in the district are being funded by the North Eastern Council and urged the deputy commissioner to ensure close monitoring to maintain quality.

He assured continued support to the district and the state in his capacity as NEC planning adviser.

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He further noted that the festival’s theme underscores the importance of building stronger connections among all communities residing in the district.

Zandi Domta, in his brief address, highlighted the vital role of tribal hohos in decision-making in Nagaland. He said the hohos work for the welfare of the people and handle key matters concerning land, people, and identity.

Domta appealed to the gathering to continue supporting the tribal hohos and urged village authorities to safeguard their respective lands. He emphasised that progress is possible only when unity and harmonious relations are maintained.

The programme was earlier compered by Paukizonne Meriam. Dr. Rampaokupoing Michui, executive secretary of ZBCC, offered the invocation, followed by a welcome address by Apeuna Iheilung, president of ZMO.

The District Headquarters Choir presented a special performance, and cultural troupes, including the Peren Cultural Club, Liangmai Cultural Troupe, Kuki Cultural Troupe, and Rongmei Cultural Troupe, showcased the district's rich traditions through vibrant performances.

Indigenous games presented by the Zeme Council, Liangmai Council, Rongmei Council, and Kuki Inpi stole the show, alongside an exciting bamboo pole climbing competition. There was also a thrilling tug of war exhibition match, with teams like heads of offices, Peren, taking on tribal hohos/CSOs in the men's category, and heads of offices, Peren, facing off against ZMO in the women's category.

The special guest also inaugurated the exhibition stalls and flower show competition. The afternoon session featured the air gun shooting and flower show competitions, drawing active participation and adding vibrancy to the celebrations.

“The inaugural day of the Unity Mini Hornbill Festival 2025 concluded successfully with strong community participation and a renewed emphasis on unity, harmony, and collective progress,” the report stated.