DIMAPUR: Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has emphasised that India’s linguistic diversity is one of its greatest cultural strengths, calling for the promotion of Hindi alongside the preservation of indigenous languages.
He was speaking at the prize distribution ceremony of the Hindi Film Song Competition organised by Akashvani Kohima as part of Hindi Pakhwada 2026, held at the Akashvani Office Complex in Kohima on Thursday. The Governor said that while Hindi plays an important role as a common means of communication across different regions, indigenous languages carry the history, traditional knowledge, values, songs and stories of communities. “Learning Hindi can help citizens communicate with people across the country, while indigenous languages keep communities connected to their roots and identity. Both have an important place in building an India where different languages and cultures coexist, interact and enrich the national fabric,” he stated.
Highlighting the significance of the Hindi Film Song Competition, Yadav noted that music transcends linguistic boundaries and communicates emotions such as happiness, love, nostalgia, hope, patriotism, and friendship. He observed that Hindi film songs have become part of the shared cultural memory of generations of Indians, while Nagaland’s vibrant musical tradition continues to connect the State with the rest of the country and the world. Congratulating the prize winners and participants, the Governor said participation itself has great value, as performing helps overcome hesitation, practice develops discipline, listening fosters appreciation and group activities build friendship and camaraderie. He added that these qualities are valuable not only on stage but also in public service.
Yadav also appreciated the role of Akashvani Kohima, noting that in a geographically challenging State like Nagaland, broadcasting has played a vital role in providing a platform for local voices, languages, music, traditions, and issues of public importance, while connecting the State with the rest of India.
On language in public administration, the Governor stressed that official communication should be precise, understandable, inclusive, and people-friendly. He said the progressive use of Hindi in official work should ultimately contribute to effective communication and better public service.
Concluding his address, Yadav conveyed the message, “Many languages, many cultures, many voices — but one shared spirit of India.” He encouraged young people to learn more than one language and called for the spirit of Hindi Pakhwada to continue beyond the fortnight, promoting Hindi while respecting English and all other Indian languages.
