Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio calls for Naga unity, cultural preservation

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on called for unity among Nagas and stressed the preservation of cultural identity while addressing the inaugural Tenyimi Youth Cultural Festival 2026 at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama Wednesday.
Speaking as the festival’s special guest, Rio described the event as a celebration of shared identity and living heritage, underscoring the theme “Unity through Cultural Heritage.” He noted that although Tenyimi people come from different tribes, states and backgrounds, their common traditions and history bind them as one family. The chief minister said such cultural markers are essential for social cohesion and must be actively preserved by younger generations.
Rio highlighted the role of songs, stories and customs in maintaining community bonds and framed cultural continuity as an investment in the future rather than merely a look to the past. He urged youth to embrace their role as custodians of heritage, combining creativity with discipline and resilience to sustain traditional values amid modern challenges.
On language preservation, Rio referenced a request from Ura Academy, which promotes Tenyidie, and suggested exploring the introduction of Tenyidie as a third language in Navodaya Vidyalayas located in Tenyimi areas. He acknowledged the work of elders and organisations in elevating Tenyidie to university-level recognition and appealed to stakeholders to consider replacing Assamese with Tenyidie where feasible.
Turning to broader political and historical context, Rio recalled constitutional safeguards such as Article 371(A) and earlier protections like the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, noting that Naga leaders had long sought measures to protect indigenous customs, land and resources. He reiterated that ongoing efforts to resolve the Naga political issue require unity—emotionally, culturally and politically—and urged Nagas to recognise their shared identity.
Rio praised Tenyimi leaders for their vision and encouraged the use of cultural platforms to strengthen ties across communities. Quoting a proverb—“a tree without roots cannot stand”—he stressed the need to remain grounded in tradition to withstand future challenges.
Concluding his address, the chief minister expressed hope that the festival would become an annual fixture, deepening unity among Tenyimi people and contributing to the larger goal of Naga solidarity and an honourable resolution to outstanding political issues.
Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, speaking as special guest , called the event a vital platform to strengthen brotherhood among Tenyimi people. He said the Tenyimi Union is more than an organisation; it is a family linked by common ancestry traced to “Tenyiu.” Zeliang highlighted cultural similarities in dialect, lifestyle, cuisine and dress as evidence of shared roots and said the festival helps bridge divides and foster unity. Emphasising youth roles, he urged initiatives that build belonging and cooperation. He appealed to the Angami community to continue supporting other Tenyimi tribes, recalling their historical role in spreading education and Christianity through Tenyidie.
Zeliang urged documentation of Tenyimi history, calling on researchers to record oral traditions to preserve heritage for future generations and cultural identity.
Tenyimi Union Nagaland president Kekhwengulo Lea said Tenyimi people, though spread across states, share a common heritage. He said the union was formed to address collective concerns in Nagaland and to promote peace, mutual respect and cultural preservation. Lea said the platform will give youth opportunities to showcase traditions through folk dance and song, and paid tribute to forebears for sacrifices that fostered peaceful coexistence and a hopeful future.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Angami Youth Organisation president Kesosul Christopher LTU, while invocation was pronounced by executive secretary, Pochury Baptist Church Council, Rev. Rümatho Nyusou.
Tenyimi Union Nagaland (TUN) general secretary, Dr. Tumda Newme delivered the acknowledgement. Coloured Keys presented a special number, while the Naga People’s Organisation cultural troupe from Senapati performed a cultural dance.
Vote of thanks was delivered by Rengma Selo Zi president Kegwayhun Tep, while benediction was pronounced by NCRC Chakhesang Council president Rev. Zaseyi Veswüh.
Cultural presentations were also made by Angami Youth Organisation cultural troupe, Phusachodu Cultural Troupe (CYF), Tesophenyu Cultural Society Kohima (RSZ), Pochury Youth Organisation cultural troupe, and Zeliang cultural troupe.
In the second session, associate pastor (youth), Rengma Baptist Church Kohima, Zakevi Kesen, and principal, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Jakhama, Dr. Fr. George Keduolhou Dzeyie, pronounced prayers.