Dr Chumben Murry along with the organizer and the winner.
Morung Express News
Wokha | December 8
The 6th Hornbill Angling Festival 2024 Prize Distribution Ceremony was held on December 7 at Mangsungtchu, Ashaa Village, Doyang Reservoir, Wokha, Nagaland. Organised by the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the Anglers Association Nagaland (AAN) and hosted by the District Anglers Wokha Nagaland (DAWN), the event attracted anglers from across the region.
The programme was graced by Dr. Chumben Murry, Ex-Minister of Nagaland and Advisor to the Chief Minister, Sr. Vice President, and Coordinator of NDPP Nagaland, who attended as the special guest. In his address, Dr. Murry highlighted the significance of celebrations in strengthening relationships and lauded the Nagaland Government for its commitment to celebrating the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival.
Dr. Murry emphasised that anglers, known for their patience and peaceful nature, could play an important role in promoting peace and unity within the state. He urged the angling community to be guardians of the ecosystem, encouraging them to focus on preservation rather than exploitation. He also commended the state government and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for their significant achievements, which have brought Nagaland international recognition.
Addressing the social and political challenges facing Nagaland, Dr. Murry lamented the lack of unity among leaders and tribes, which hinders progress. He noted the threats of boycotts to the Hornbill Festival by various tribes, should their demands remain unmet, and called for greater unity. He stressed that the festival should be seen as a celebration for all people of Nagaland, not just political leaders, and urged the community to focus on development for all.
In a call for peace and resolution, Dr. Murry advocated for a unified approach to achieving the long-awaited Naga political solution, which he believed would bring lasting unity and resolve ongoing issues.
Fishery and Aquatic Resources Joint Director, Neitho-o Koutsu, also spoke briefly, congratulating the participants, AAN, and DAWN for the successful staging of the 6th Hornbill Angling Festival. He revealed that the department is working on studies related to fish habitats and aquatic life in collaboration with various research institutions. He further praised DAWN for its efforts in raising awareness about the harmful practice of dynamic fishing in the Doyang district.
Derek D’Souza, Vice President of the All India Game Fishing Association (AIGFA), was present as a technical support expert. He praised the participants for expanding the angling community’s reach and noted that angling is unique in that it doesn’t rely on studying an opponent’s weaknesses, but rather on hope, dedication, and patience. He encouraged anglers to use the sport as a means to forge lasting relationships and friendships.
The festival saw participation from 253 anglers, including individuals from Bangalore, Assam, and various districts of Nagaland. The coveted title of the 6th Hornbill Angling Festival was won by Bemo Jami. The event was chaired by K.N. Mhonthung Lotha, President of DAWN.
