A cultural troupe performs during the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah Festival celebration in Thonoknyu Town on January 21. (Morung Photo)

Khaozaosie Hok-Ah celebrated in Thonoknyu Town
Morung Express News
Noklak | January 21
Activities such as oil exploration in Nagaland could be a gateway to boosting development in the State, highlighted Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday.
Addressing the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah celebration in Thonoknyu Town as the special guest, Rio also underscored the imperative of peace and unity among the Nagas, noting that development cannot flourish without harmony.
Extending his greetings to the Khiamniungan community on the occasion, he emphasised the importance of festivals in promoting peace, unity, and harmony among communities.
CM Rio also called upon everyone to use such occasions to strengthen bonds, foster mutual respect, and prioritise peace and harmony in Noklak, the State's frontier district situated along the international boundary. He stated that peace and harmony should be the foundation for progress and development, contributing to the overall growth of the State.
"Festivals like Khaozaosie Hok-Ah are not just a reminder of our deep-rooted traditions but also a platform to unite as one people, keeping peace and harmony at the forefront. It is through such unity that we can bring progress and prosperity to Nagaland," he said.

Despite the influence of Christianity and modernisation, he urged the people not to lose their rich traditions and stressed the importance of Article 371(A) in safeguarding cultural practices.
He urged the youth to strive for development while preserving their cultures and traditions.
CM Rio strongly advocated for peace and unity among the Nagas, stressing that without it, no development would be possible.
He also emphasised the importance of building cordial partnerships between the Nagas, Japan, and other international countries, which could benefit Naga youth.

Rio further highlighted the success of the Hornbill Festival, celebrated in the state capital, which showcased the rich heritage of the Nagas and attracted numerous tourists.
Festival host MLA Benei M Lamthiu, in his festival greetings, said that the Khiamniungans, from sunrise to sunset (spanning India and Myanmar), are united through shared culture.

He lauded Rio for being the visionary behind the mini-Hornbill Festival, aimed at maintaining unity and cultural preservation.
Lamthiu stated that the festival is a time of thanksgiving for the good harvest, forgiveness, and a chance to bridge gaps between communities.
The Deputy Commissioner of Noklak expressed his gratitude to the Government of Nagaland and the Chief Minister for their support in preserving cultural heritage and making the festival a success.
He highlighted the progress made in Thonoknyu under the Aspirational Block Programme, launched in January 2023, despite facing challenges.

He emphasised the need for continued government intervention and urged everyone to unite in peace and harmony, using the festival as an opportunity to celebrate traditions and reaffirm their commitment to preserving them for future generations.
At the event, the Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC), represented by L Ngon Khiamniungan, submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister. Among other points, it highlighted the following: Upgradation of the SDO (C) to ADC, Thonoknyu HQ under Noklak District; Upgradation of EAC to SDO (C) Panso; Reminder for new post creations of EAC and ITC Dan and New post creation of EAC HQ at Peshu HQ; and Establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) at Thonoknyu HQ.
Meanwhile, Thonoknyu Town came alive with the vibrant celebration of Khaozaosie Hok-Ah, the festival of Feast and Rest, showcasing various cultural and other activities.

Organised by the KTC with support from the Government of Nagaland, the event was held in collaboration with the district administration, Khiamniungan Students’ Union, Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam, and the Noklak District Handloom and Handicraft Council.
The festival featured cultural dances, folk songs, and exhibitions of traditional handloom and handicrafts, showcasing the artistic and cultural identity of the Khiamniungan tribe.
The event was attended by the Minister of Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Village Guards, C L John; Advisor for Geology & Mining and DUDA, W Chingang Konyak; and Advisor for School Education & SCERT, Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome.
CM Rio also inaugurated handicraft stalls and inspected cultural troupes.