Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu stressed on the need for unity among the North Eastern states and called upon the people of the region to work together for progress.
Speaking as chief guest at the 16th Hornbill International Naga Wrestling Championship, 2023 organised by Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) at Chiechama Amphitheatre about 27 km away from Kohima on Monday, Khandu claimed that all the North Eastern states were progressing under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The Prime Minister has totally changed the dynamics of the entire north-eastern region soon after assuming office,” he said, urging the states of the region to keep up the momentum and address any challenges collectively to achieve the desired goals.
He remarked that the Northeast was the future of India, emphasising that the country would fully grow when the region grew. He observed that the region was leading the country in the sports sector with Manipur being the powerhouse. He acknowledged sportspersons from the region representing the country in Asian and global sporting events, bringing laurels to the country. Khandu said leaders of the region were working together, especially in the sports sector by providing sports infrastructure and motivating the youth.
Sharing his observations on the ongoing Hornbill Festival, the Arunachal chief minister remarked that there had been a transformative change this year compared to the festival he had visited in 2017.
He lauded chief minister Neiphiu Rio, calling him a “fatherly figure” of the Northeast, for his contributions not just to Nagaland but towards the entire region.
Noting that the region was very diverse, he said just like Nagaland having 16 major tribes and many other sub-tribes with their distinct culture, other north-eastern states too had cultural diversity.
Rio, who was present on the occasion, thanked Khandu for graciously accepting his invitation to join the event. He also thanked all the dignitaries and visiting guests for being part of the festival.
He pointed out that owing to heavy traffic at Kisama and shortage of parking space, the annual Hornbill wrestling championship had been relocated to Chiechama. He thanked the host village for willingly coming forward to shoulder the responsibility.
Noting that tribal leaders had over the years come forward to protect and promote Naga culture and cuisines, he observed that the festival had now grown from being a mere Naga festival to an international festival now.
He appealed for more public support and cooperation to keep the festival spirits alive.
He assured the state government’s full support to the Hornbill Wrestling Championship and hoped that the event would continue to attract more players every year.
Special guests who attended the event included Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly speaker Passang D Sona, Rajya Sabha member Sushmita Dev, former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia, state industries & commerce adviser Hekani Jakhalu, East Mojo founder Karma Paljor and income tax commissioner Gaina Kamie.
The welcome address was delivered by adviser to CM Abu Metha and NWA president Dr Hiabe Zeliang delivered the president’s address.
The programme was chaired by NWA vice-president Dr Dietho Koza and invocation was pronounced by Chiechama Baptist Church pastor Rev Soneiu Metha.
A traditional song was presented by Keneilezo and party, while NWA joint secretary Amos Pame administered the oath to the wrestlers.