Shamator, January 16 (MExN): The second day of the Tsüngkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival at Shamator was attended by Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio and a host of senior state ministers and tribal leaders on January 16, with a focus on fostering unity and development.
The event saw the participation of Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, Minister for Forest & Environment CL John, Advisor S Kiusumew, Advisor S Keoshu Yimchunger, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) President Sword Vashum, and Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) President A Chingmak Chang, among other dignitaries.
In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the growth of the Hornbill Festival from a roadshow concept to an event of national recognition, noting that six countries participated in its previous edition. He recalled British-era acknowledgement of Naga self-governance, which led to the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873 to protect Naga traditions and customs.
Dr Rio mentioned that during the last Hornbill Festival, “some international participants faced visa restrictions due to national policies.” The Government of Nagaland, through a cabinet meeting, had written to the Centre to seek relaxation of such restrictions, he stated.
He also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Viksit Bharat” vision and urged collective effort toward all-round development.
Dr Rio particularly emphasised the landmark friendship forged between the Tangkhul Naga Long and the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), calling it a reflection of the state government’s “Unity” motto.
He expressed hope that this friendship would serve as a bridge toward unity among all Nagas making Naga-inhabited areas the most peaceful through brotherhood and mutual respect.
TNL President Sword Vashum thanked the YTC for the invitation and in the true Christian spirit, soughed forgiveness for the past misunderstandings. He assured stronger ties between the two communities, emphasising their shared history and brotherhood since time immemorial. He also invited the YTC to participate in the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival on February 15.
YTC President S Throngso accepted the invitation and acknowledged the invitation to the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival, accepted the apologies extended by TNL and likewise apologised for any past wrongdoings. He emphasised burying the past and working together for unity and peace in the future.
A declaration of mutual respect and understanding between the two communities was officially read out by the YTC President.
ENPO President A Chingmak Chang applauded the friendship between the Tangkhul and Yimkhiung communities, stating it such unity strengthens ties with the people of Eastern Nagaland as a whole.
Advisor S Kiusumew spoke on the significance of Tsungkamnyo as a festival rooted in year-long preparation and urged the present generation to work responsibly for a better future.
The programme concluded with cultural performances by Tangkhul and Yimkhiung troupes, showcasing their traditional heritage.
New DC complex to bridge governance gap
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday inaugurated a new Deputy Commissioner’s office complex and five associated government offices in Shamator district, aiming to strengthen local administration and service delivery.
The inauguration coincided with the Tsüngkamnyo Mini Hornbill festival of the Yimchungru Nagas.
The newly inaugurated facilities include the offices of the Superintendent of Police, District Public Relations Officer (DPRO), District Youth Resource Officer (DYRO), District Planning Officer (DPO), and the District Sericulture Office, stated a DIPR report.
Speaking at the event, Dr Rio stated that Shamator, as a newly created district, was established to bring administration closer to the people and ensure “inclusive and balance development.” He acknowledged that the absence of a fully functional DC office had posed challenges in effective governance, inter-departmental coordination, delivery of public services and implementation of government schemes.
“The inauguration of these offices will address the gaps and lay a strong foundation for efficient district administration,” Dr Rio said.
He emphasised the Deputy Commissioner's role as the principal administrative and executive authority at the district level, responsible for revenue, law and order, disaster management, and development planning and coordination among line department
“The establishment of these offices is a critical step towards strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and ensuring the overall welfare of the people,” the CM added.
Dr Rio also indicated that the creation of a Treasury and Sub-Treasury Office would be considered based on “necessity of transaction.”
The CM thanked departmental engineers, contractors, workers, and the local community for their cooperation in completing the projects. He urged the citizens of Shamator to collectively maintain and optimally utilise the new facilities.
“The DC complex should become a centre of efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric governance for the people of Shamator,” Dr Rio said.
