Tsungiki-Philimi Doyang Union (TPDU) celebrated the 25th edition of its annual community fishing event on April 12 at Jendong Ezhu/Tsutsuye, on the banks of Doyang River, Wokha.
Secretary of Nagaland Government Registered Class-I Contractors’ Union (NGRC-I-CU), Abel P. Shohe, attended the event as special guest.
As part of the traditional fishing method, men pound piscicidal plant roots in the river for about 30 to 40 minutes. This sustainable technique does not harm aquatic life and has been passed down through generations.
Organized annually under the Tsungiki-Philimi Doyang Union, the event continues to uphold its core values of peace, brotherhood, and environmental responsibility, ensuring the legacy of sustainable fishing practices is passed down through generations.
In his address, Shohe highlighted the rich history of the community fishing tradition, which has been practiced for over a century, though the union was officially formed in 2000. He emphasized the cultural significance of the event and called on both Tsungiki and Philimi villages to work towards making the event bigger and make it a formal festival that could boost tourism and generate revenue for the region.
Shohe encouraged the communities to invite people from neighboring villages and tribes to participate, promote unity and cultural exchange. He also underlined the importance of documenting the traditional practices involved in the event, such as the week-long preparations that include collecting logs and the roots.
He further suggested that the festival be celebrated on fixed date and a formal structure to attract wider recognition, potentially developing it into a major cultural event similar to the Hornbill Festival. He urged the community to take ownership of the festival’s growth and later collaborate with the government for greater support.
Expressing gratitude for being part of the celebration, Shohe called for better organization, stronger regulations, and continued efforts toward preserving natural resources and the rivers.
Tsungiki and Philimi Village Councils expressed joy over the successful celebration and the growing interest from across the state. They noted that the event fosters friendship and unity, with new bonds being formed each year.