(From right) Nagaland minister for Art & Culture, Tourism and Election, EE Pangteang, chairman DAN, Jacob Zhimomi, and director of Art & Culture, Kughazhe K Yeputhomi, pose for lens after the minister unveiled the plaque of the new multi-purpose cultural complex at Tenyiphe-1, Dimapur, on Wednesday. (Morung Photo)
Nagaland tourism minister inaugurates multi-purpose cultural complex
DIMAPUR, MAY 29 (MExN): Nagaland minister for Art & Culture, Tourism and Election, EE Pangteang, today said one area of concern that needs to be highlighted is that Naga people still have inadequate sense of ownership of public property and infrastructure.
“As a result, our public assets are poorly maintained and get damaged early. We must understand that it is the general public who are the losers. This attitude needs to be changed,” the minister said in his address after inaugurating the multi-purpose cultural complex at Tenyiphe-1, Dimapur, on Wednesday.
Pangteang said the public must come forward to take possession of the infrastructure provided by the Government and use them to the maximum advantage. “Not only that, we must learn to protect and preserve such assets keeping in mind the fundamental value that will continue to have for decade to come. Such public assets cannot be constructed by individuals,” he added. The minister also stressed on the need to ensure that constructions of vital public infrastructures are properly implemented as such assets serve as an image to the state.
Stating that Naga people are talented and gifted, capable of generating various resources through “promotion and preservation of our rich heritage”, the minister hoped that cultural complex would serve as a centre of excellence in creative arts and imparting training to young artistes and also act as an information resource centre of the North East Region.
Chairman, Development Authority of Nagaland, Jacob Zhimomi, MLA, who also attended the programme as guest of honour said that art and culture is the “soul of the Nagas.” He said if Nagas respect their own cultural heritage, then other people would also respect Nagas. Earlier, Jacob who also the inaugurated the “Whispering hues”, an exhibition of paintings of Naga artists presented by Art & Culture department, said the state government was ready to extend all possible assistance to upcoming artistes and painters.
Director, of Art & Culture, Kughazhe K Yeputhomi, proposed vote of thanks. Cultural troupes from various Naga tribes presented folk songs dances on the occasion.
The cultural complex funded by North Eastern Council (NEC) was completed at a total cost of Rs. 2 crores and has sitting capacity of 350 people.
