Minister public health engineering (PHE) Jacob Zhimomi unfurled the flag at the 75th Independence Day celebration as chief guest at the DDSC stadium Dimapur Sunday.
In his speech Jacob said India was moving ahead with determination in every domain and has secured its place amongst the important and influential nations in the world now. He said Nagaland has also become an equal partner along with other States in the country’s march towards development.
Mentioning that Nagaland’s sons and daughters had been part of India’s journey towards progress, Jacob recalled that Naga soldiers had fought against the country’s enemies and secured its borders with courage and valour.
On Naga political issue, the minister lauded the elected members for listening to the voice of the people and coming together, irrespective of party affiliations.
Taking the spirit of collectiveness further, he noted that the House also appealed to Naga political negotiating groups to come together in order to hammer out their differences to give the people an inclusive solution, which was “honourable and acceptable”.
Referring to the border row with Assam, he claimed that the Nagaland government had taken proactive steps with the Assam government to de-escalate the situation.
“We feel that the border issue should be settled amicably by the two State governments by involving local communities from both sides,” he remarked.
Jacob also paid tributes and extended appreciation to all healthcare and frontline workers in the State and across the world for the enormous sacrifices that they had made for the cause of humanity during Covid-19 pandemic
He encouraged the gathering to re-dedicate themselves to work sincerely for bringing positive developments in areas where Nagaland lagged behind in order to get the State counted among the most developed and progressive States of the country.
Meanwhile, 13 colonies and villages of Dimapur – Aoyimkum village, Rilanv illage, 5th Mile Model village, Hokhezhe village, Hoito village, Khopanala village, Singrijan village, Tir village, Molvom village, East Police Colony, Jharnapani village, Khughovi village and Xuvihe Colony – were felicitated at the Independence Day programme for achieving 100% vaccination of eligible beneficiaries.
Other major highlights of the programme included a march past by contingents of 15th NAP IR Mahila Battalion, excise directorate, home guards, NAP IR Mahila Battalion and Dimapur Police commissionerate, while specials number were presented on the occasion by Kevizhapu Kire, group song by Musik-A school and a war dance by Ethnic Performing Arts.