Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio after unveiling the NSF monolith during the Federation's 28th General Conference in Bhandari Town, Wokha on May 9. (DIPR Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | May 9
Nagaland State Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, today said that only through “unity and oneness” can the Nagas hope to achieve their political aspiration.
Rio said Nagas are at a crucial juncture in their history and unless Naga people live in peace and arrive at a political solution, then the Naga future may not be “bright”. He said Nagas should not only support the peace process but also make sacrifices by rising above individualism, clanism, tribalism and upholding “Naga-ism”.
On the issue of peace and political solution, Rio lamented that Naga people are unable to find the way forward in a unified manner in the civil society movement, from the tribal hohos to the women and tribal organizations. He said Nagas still do not have a unified platform that will carry the Naga voice in a manner that transcends tribes, districts, states and countries.
“It is only through unity and oneness that the Naga voice can gain strength and through which we can achieve our aspiration for real and honourable solution”, the CM stated in his address as honoured guest at the inaugural session of the 28th general conference of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) at public ground, Bhandari town.
Rio added that the cry of the Naga people is for resolution of the conflict through a negotiated settlement that is honourable and inclusive and that unity amongst all sections, be it over-ground or amongst the Naga national organizations, is the need of the hour.
The CM iterated that the resolution of the Indo-Naga political conflict is at the top of the PDA government’s agenda and that his government has taken “significant steps in playing the role of active facilitator” in the ongoing peace process.
Rio also dwelled on the role of students and youth in the fields of education and employment and in shaping the economic destination of the state.
Earlier, on his arrival, Rio unveiled the NSF monolith located half a kilometer away from the conference venue.
Manipur Minister for PHED, L. Dikho, the special guest, in his address said the NSF is one of the most important platforms for the Nagas and that the federation has contributed much to Naga society, notably bringing the Naga people together.
Noting the T-shirts worn by Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) students with the words—‘Nagas without borders’ inscribed, Dikho said “this is our vision, our future.”
Underscoring “unity” as the most important element for Naga society, he said the younger generation should imbibe the spirit of unity forged by their senior leaders. Calling Naga people as fortunate, especially after embracing the Christian faith, Dikho challenged the youth and said “If you think Nagas are different and unique, then you have to prove yourself to the world.”
NSF President, Kesosul Christopher Ltu, in his presidential address, highlighted on unemployment and the dangers of illegal immigration. Convenor, Central Organizing Committee, S Supongmeren Jamir, delivered the welcome note.
Other highlights of the inaugural session included greetings from President, ENSF, Sepili L Sangtam and North East Students’ Organization, ‘Give us a vision’ by the conference choir, special number by Oriental Theological Seminary and cultural item by Lotha Students’ Union.
