Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards minister CL John said the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change was implementing the Nagaland Forest Management Project with assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), under which an Eco-Park was inaugurated on December 1, 2024 jointly by chief minister Neiphiu Rio and Ambassador of Japan in India Keichii Ono.
Speaking at DDSC here on Sunday after unfurling the tricolour on the occasion of 76th Republic Day, CL John mentioned that Eco-Park was being developed along with Kohima Peace Memorial, which would serve as a testimony to the close ties between Japan and India, particularly with Nagaland.
He disclosed that the complex would showcase local handicrafts, along with a message for harmonious relation with the nature. He remarked that the Republic Day was an appropriate moment to remember the wisdom of the makers of the Constitution of India, especially Dr BR Ambedkar who was chairman of the drafting committee.
According to him, it was a testimony to the resilience of the constitution that Nagaland attained statehood on December 1, 1963. With statehood, he maintained that Nagaland became equal partners in the country’s journey of peace and progress in the true spirit of cooperative federalism.
The minister claimed that the state government had worked tirelessly to live up to the ideals embodied in the constitution. To mark the occasion, exhibition stalls set up by various departments were inaugurated by minister CL John.
Besides the customary parade, there were vibrant cultural performances. Highlights of the programme included patriotic song by Shri Digamber Jain Higher Secondary School and Pranab Vidyapith Higher Secondary School. Cultural performances by Garo and Sumi womenfolk followed by prize distribution and retreat by 43rd Assam Rifles.