Elu Ndang and others during the inaugural function of snail and trout festival at Poilwa on April 29. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Poilwa | April 29
The third annual Snail and Trout Festival commenced today at Poilwa in Peren district under the aegis of Mt. Rhododendron Adventure Club Poilwa (MRACP).
Gracing the inaugural function as the special guest, Naga Hoho, General Secretary, Elu Ndang said people of Poilwa were the pioneer and backbone of the Zeliangrong people. In this, he called upon the people to continue to work for the unity of the Zeliangrong people. He said that Zeliangrong people are undergoing through difficult situations at the moment because of “our divisions.”
“But let us remember that divisions and fragmentation is common to every society and we are a part of it. We should not be distracted or discourage because of our division rather we must collectively work hard to achieve better understanding with our focus on the vision laid down by our elders for a strong Zeliangrong people,” he said.
He called upon the people to think and reason together for a better future. It is important to know the course of our history from the days of our origin (ancestors) to where we are today, he said.
He encouraged the youth to go for research on the rich history and translate oral history into written history. He said that the world is becoming smaller; it has become a global village. “A day will come where your land will be more precious than gold and silver,” he said.
He urged the people protect their land and environment, saying “Let us make commitment to stop destroying our forest and stop cutting of trees rather plant more trees. The world is talking about global warming. Let us contribute to the world by doing our part through protecting and preserving our rich natural resources. Let us transform our green district into the land of Milk and Honey,” he said.
Ndang also called upon the youth to stand up against corruption and raise their voices for clean election.
“Stop selling of votes but choose a good leader who can bring development for our people,” he said. Saying that fear affects the ability to learn/improve and go ahead successfully in life, he said, “If we are to progress together as a people, let us remove fear and replace with trust and confidence.”
Earlier, Diswang Hau also exhorted the gathering. Welcome address was delivered by (MRACP) President Puigwam while vote of thanks was proposed by festival chairman Tabangding.
The festival will continue till April 30.
