Kohima, June 26 (MExN): A total of 42 students from Chhattisgarh arrived in Nagaland on June 15 for a week-long cultural exchange programme as part of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Yuva Sangam Phase-II initiative.
As part of the imitative, on June 16 the Chhattisgarh delegates went to Kisama and witnessed the tribal Morungs. At Khonoma and Dzuleke, they witnessed the scenic beauty of the place and were introduced to the Nagaland State Animal, Mithun.
Dr Rosang Pongen, Nodal officer the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Nagaland state briefed about the importance of Khonoma, which is the first green village of India. He spoke about the final stand of Naga warriors during the battle of Khonoma and the power of their resistance and Act of bravery.
Chhattisgarh delegates visited the Chumpo Museum, Sovima and witnessed ancient Naga articles on June 17. They visited Stone Park near Dimapur Airport. In the evening, the youths were exposed to Naga traditional cooking practices. Students were assisted by two local cooks, Semerlepden Pongen of NIT Nagaland and Rezienuo Sokra of Chümoukedima village. Items cooked during the practical session included chicken cooked inside bamboo, bamboo shoot chicken, mushroom chutney and sticky rice.
The host of the event Neituolie Sokra and Kesovinuo Sokra of Chümoukedima village were felicitated by Surendra Naik, from Ministry of education Delhi and Dr Rosang Pongen, Nodal officer EBSB Nagaland state.
On June 18, the delegates from Chhattisgarh attended the Father's day programme at Police Church Chümoukedima. In the evening session, Chhattisgarh youths displayed cultural and traditional performances and acts. It included Chhattisgarh songs, dances and acts.
Dr Rosang introduced the members with the recently launch NIT Nagaland staff band. The band members included Mikato on vocals and guitars, Daniel Yanger on lead guitar, Moa on drums and Sorenthung on bass. The motive behind the acoustic rock concert was to introduce the Chhattisgarh delegates with Naga people’s love and affinity towards western music which has become an important asset for connecting with people.
On June 19, the delegates visited the ruins of Kachari Kingdom. They also visited Super Market in Dimapur to witness and shop Naga organic fruits and vegetables. They were exposed with Naga handicrafts, bamboo crafts and handlooms during their visit to the Nagaland Handloom and Handicraft Development Limited in Dimapur. Later, they headed to the railway station to leave for Chhattisgarh.
Yuva Sangam is an initiative launched by the Indian Government on February 6, 2023 to promote the cultural and communion of the Northeast Region with the rest of the country.
