Nagaland: WWII Peace Rally reaffirms call for peace

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, speaking as the chief host of the annual WWII Peace Rally commemorating the Battle of Kohima, said the event served as a reminder of history while reaffirming collective commitment to peace. He noted that the rally had been held for the past 14 years, honouring both Allied and Japanese soldiers who fought in Kohima and acknowledging the experiences of the Naga people caught in the conflict.
Rio stated that the rally evoked “good and bad memories,” but symbolised a celebration of shared history. He reiterated that although the war had not been Nagaland’s own, it had deeply affected the Naga people. He stressed the importance of paying homage to those who fought, suffered, and died, adding that the rally stood as an important platform to promote the message of peace not only in Nagaland but globally. The Chief Minister noted that many soldiers from different countries had died in Nagaland and had equally sacrificed for what they believed in. He said vintage vehicles, jeeps, weapons and demonstrations continued to attract significant public interest during commemorative events, helping to preserve historical memory while honouring the fallen.
The Chief Minister extended appreciation to the Flat Fenders Club and its president, John Longkumer, commending the members for their commitment, enthusiasm and painstaking efforts in maintaining vintage vehicles. He also congratulated the Nagaland Adventure Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) and its president Lima for organising the rally and consistently reviving historical memory for younger generations.
Delivering the battle report of the Hornbill WWII Peace Rally, Rally Commander and IPS (Retd.) officer, TJ Longkumer, said the event stood as a tribute to valour, courage and sacrifice, and to the history that shaped peoples and nations.
Reporting on the rally’s progress, he said 27 vehicles had started the journey and all had successfully reached the destination despite overheated engines and breakdowns along the way. He stated that six of the participating vehicles were from the WWII era and had seen actual combat, carrying soldiers into the Battle of Kohima and aiding relief efforts from Dimapur.
A total of 23 jeeps and one Nissan took part in this year’s peace rally, which commenced from Chümoukedima and culminated at the WWII Museum Complex, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama. The event was organised by Nagaland Adventure Motor Sports Association (NAMSA). Earlier, the prize-distribution ceremony was led by Dr. Tolto Metha, executive member, NAMSA.
Results:
Most Original Jeeps:
1st – Squad led by Dr Andrew Ahoto
2nd – Squad led by Lanu Jamir
3rd – Squad led by Pedi Miachieo
Best Maintained Jeeps:
1st – Squad led by TJ Longkumer
2nd – Squad led by Shanwar Hussein
3rd – Squad led by Vikishe Shohe
Best Weaponry – Squad led by RT Chang
Best Uniform Squad – led by Mhashevoto John.