State chief minister, Neiphiu Rio, has stressed the need to promote peace, unity and harmony among communities through festivals. According to a DIPR report, the chief minister was speaking as special guest at the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah Festival celebration programme at Thonoknyu town, Noklak district on January 21, 2025.
Extending his greetings to the Khiamniungan community on the occasion of Khozaosie Hok-Ah, Rio called upon everyone to use such occasion to strengthen bonds and foster mutual respect.
The chief minister also emphasised that Noklak, the state’s frontier district, situated along the international boundary, needed to prioritise peace and harmony as the foundation for progress and development and contribute towards the overall development of the State.
He said that festivals like Khozaosie Hok-Ah were not just a reminder of their deep-rooted traditions but also a platform to unite as one people, keeping peace and harmony at the forefront. “It is through such unity that we can bring progress and prosperity to Nagaland,” Rio said.
The chief minister also urged the younger generation to take pride in the heritage and actively work towards preserving the rich culture and traditions passed down by forefathers.
He asserted that the youth play a vital role in carrying forward the legacy of the Naga people.
In the festival spirit, Rio reiterated his commitment to fostering an environment of peace and inclusivity.
The chief minister encouraged all the citizens to celebrate responsibly and reflect on the shared values that bind the diverse communities of Nagaland together. Other highlights of the programme included festival greetings by festival host, Benei M Lamthiu, MLA; festival significance by former treasure of Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC), M. Ngon and welcome address by KTC president, Ngon. Short speech was delivered by deputy commissioner (DC) Noklak, Arikumba. A folk fusion item was presented by Tupong & Thango.
The programme was followed by inauguration of handicraft stalls and inspection of cultural troupes by the special guest. The event was also attended by minister of forest, environment & climate change, village guards CL John; advisor geology & mining, DUDA, W. Chingang Konyak; advisor school education & SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome.
The festival, a celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage and traditions, was organised by Khiamniungan Tribal Council aided by the Government of Nagaland.
Saturday, July 5, 2025