‘Nagaland is a land of slogans, not just of festivals’
Dimapur, September 23 (MExN): Niketu Iralu has been awarded the Peace Award 2012 by Peace Channel at the valedictory function of North East Youth Peace & Cultural Festival 2012 at Holy Cross Higher Secondary School Hall in Dimapur on September 23. Governor of Nagaland Nikhil Kumar, who attended the programme as the chief guest presented the award to Iralu.
The humble social worker said he did not receive the award because of his achievements but because of his belief and commitment working towards peace. He said peace, unity and cooperation can be achieved if people are willing to pay the price of change in their lives. People conduct events to promote peace like - seminars or festivals or shouting for peace but in the end a price has to be paid by every individual to achieve it.
Also, interestingly Iralu said: “Nagaland is a land of slogans, not just of festivals. Nothing is wrong with our slogans but something is seriously wrong in our thinking and living and in our relationships to one another so our society is in serious condition of disorder.”
He urged everyone to work in their own little way to attain peace in the society. On which he cited G.K. Chesterton: “Right is Right even if nobody does it. Wrong is wrong even if everybody is wrong about it.” To the youngsters, he advised them to take steps from the most initial level; such as advocating against cheating in exam.s “Cheating in exam is wrong even if so many are doing it in Nagaland,” he said.
On applying for scholarships, the social worker pointed out that many Naga students apply for ST scholarship even if they are not entitled to and after receiving the money; many misuse it on drinks, parties, picnics etc. Also, after graduation, every youngster should make a commitment that he or she will not indulge in any illegal practices to get a job or in the expense of others. Taking such small steps would bring a difference in the society. And if one must take the task of building peace in our society, one must understand the saying in the Geeta: “Do your duty and leave the rest in God’s hand.”
Governor of Nagaland Nikhil Kumar said that peace is one of the most important Christian values and needs to be pursued diligently. He said that peace does not come from anywhere but every individual needs to bring it out from within then only there will be peace in the society.
On the present situation in Nagaland, the Governor was very concerned about it. He said the reconciliation process should be supported by all. “Only when reconciliation comes we will be in a position to say, yes we have peace. That is my prayer to Almighty.”
Advising the youngster, he said they are the future and society’s wellbeing depends on them but they must realize that Nagaland is not a very developed State so they need to work towards it. And to develop the state, people should be ready to exploit the natural resources available or talents.
Although, it is almost 50 years that Nagaland had gained statehood, the state is still dependent. If the natural resources are exploited, it will be a success story of Nagaland. “I want each of you youngsters to be a part of the success story,” he added.
Taking the example of India, he said India’s economy started to grow only after it opened its door to foreign investments so Nagaland should also do the same.
MLA Hewoto Awomi, who graced the occasion as guest of honour lauded the Peace channel for its efforts. He said Peace Channel should be supported by all and urged the organization to be a dynamic group in bringing a difference to the society.
On problems faced by Nagas, he said: “…the root cause in our society is distrust, apprehensive mind, self centeredness.”
Also, he said Peace Channel should not be a passive mouth piece but should intervene and work in the society for peace. “I want Peace Channel to spread your wings of vividness…”
