Dimapur, January 17 (MExN): Molvom Village (1968-2018) today observed its 50 years celebration of Mim Kut festival with Neiphiu Rio, Member of Parliament, as the chief guest.
Mim Kut, a post-harvest festival, is a major ancestral festival of the Kuki community observed to perform rites and rituals for bountiful harvest. The colourful cultural festival, recognized by the Government through the efforts of Kuki leaders like Late Lamkam, ex-MLA and Lalkholam, ex-MLA, is celebrated on January 17 every year.
In his address, Rio remarked that Kukis have a vibrant tradition and culture preserved through the ages. He advised them that preservation and promotion of one's culture is compulsory for identity in history, informed a press release from Thejangukho Yalietsu, Press Secretary of NPF 5 Ghaspani-II A/C.
Lauding the role of early Kukis even in Naga political scenario, Rio noted that Lenjang Kuki, Interpreter, was the 18th signatory of the first Naga memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1929. As such, “you have equal right, equal participation to Naga history because you live in the Naga Hills regardless of being a minority among Nagas,” the MP asserted.
Meanwhile, Rio rued the deteriorating condition of work culture which has led “us” to depend on the government and in the process becoming a salary economy or consumer state. Pointing out that many people proudly claim to be doing nothing, he said, “If you are not doing anything, you are not good for anything.”
He praised the practice of work culture in Molvom, which has notably led to its recognition as Pineapple Village and further emphasized that skill trainings for preservation, canning, export, etc. should be incorporated for overall improvement of the economy at village level.
Rio also dwelt on rich economic returns from cottage industries, especially handloom and handicrafts, wherein the village women can pursue additional income through these ventures by weaving for all Naga tribes instead of their own people. “This can be a boost not only in finance but also in the knowledge sector once children are able to attend better schools through such income,” he added.
Reiterating on work culture, the chief guest opined, "Our soil is so fertile that any seed will grow anywhere, but there can never be any harvest without work culture."
With regard to politics, Rio affirmed that Naga political issue is his first priority. Although Nagas are at crossroads today, he affirmed, he will remain steadfast to bring about unity and permanent solution to the issue.
The Lok Sabha MP also revealed he is returning to state politics “as an obligation to requests from public in the midst of all the present chaos while envisioning all-round development for the people,” the press release stated. He sought the support of everyone in bringing about unity among Nagas by forgiving one another in order to prosper for a brighter tomorrow.
The MP was accompanied by a host of dignitaries, including his brother Zhaleo Rio, MLA of the constituency and party leaders as well as renowned social workers, the release informed.
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