Kaito urges Longsa to uphold unity

Minister of PWD (R&B) G. Kaito Aye, who graced the second day (Yatimung) of the Tsüngremmung Festival 2025 celebration at Longsa Village, lauded the community for its unity and prosperity, describing them as qualities that would long be remembered.
The village is celebrating the Tsüngremmung Festival 2025 from August 1 to 3, organised by Longsa Village Council with support from the Department of Tourism, Nagaland. On the second day, several dignitaries attended the programme held at Longsa.
Kaito attended the event as chief guest, while advisors Imkong L. Imchen and Imkongmar were the guest of honour and honoured guest.
In his address, Kaito expressed joy at participating in the festival, which he described as a cultural legacy rooted in Longsa and shared across communities. He lauded Longsa’s success in bringing together diverse tribes such as the Sumi and Sangtam, stating that such unity is rare and commendable.
He said Tsüngremmung is a reflection of harmony, and that festivals help foster togetherness and preserve traditions. Stressing the importance of collective effort to resolve Naga issues, he urged communities to promote unity through cultural exchange. “We are not strangers to one another—we are one,” he said.
Kaito praised the community for its unity and prosperity, describing them as traits that would be remembered for generations.
He urged villagers to honour the legacy of their elders, warning that neglecting their contributions could hinder future blessings.
He encouraged the continued celebration of Tsüngremmung—not merely as a cultural tradition, but as a vibrant expression of identity, unity, and harmony.
The minister emphasised that development must progress hand-in-hand with the preservation of cultural values and traditions. He called for collective wisdom and community support to ensure that growth does not come at the cost of heritage.
Responding to the Village Council’s memorandum, Kaito acknowledged the poor condition of the Bailey bridge over Dikhu River and the need for blacktopping of Longsa–Surohuto–Aghunato Road. He said the road was funded under NEC but the grant was insufficient. While the state was unable to commit due to budget constraints, he assured that maintenance will be carried out using personal resources, and would push for further funding from Dikhu to Longsa.
He also informed that a proposal worth Rs. 200–300 crore had been submitted to NEC for road improvement, and efforts are ongoing to move the project forward. He noted that the road plan was initiated by former chief secretary Alemtemshi Jamir, and highlighted the importance of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for central sanctioning. Kaito pledged support for the Village Council’s requests and encouraged community involvement through Project Implementation Units.
During the event, speeches were delivered by advisors Imkong L. Imchen and Imkongmar, as well as Marsanen Imsong, president of Ao Senden, and retired chief secretary Alemtemshi Jamir.
Earlier, welcome address was delivered by Rongsenmongba Tatar, convenor of the Tourism Committee, followed by a presentation on the significance of Tsüngremmung by Noklenrenba Tatar. Cultural showcases featured local groups and troupes from Tichipami (Sumi) and Chari (Sangtam) villages. The programme concluded with a word of acknowledgement by Limaakum Tatar.