Guests with villagers during the celebration of Moatsü festival at Imlang Aonglenden, Ungma in May 2.
Mokokchung, May 2 (MExN): Jenangsanger Kosasanger Pusu Menden Ungma celebrated Moatsü festival at Imlang Aonglenden, Ungma in May 2.
The event was graced by L Chubaonen Lkr, Director, Soil and Water Conservation, Kohima, Government of Nagaland as the chief guest.
Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, also graced the occasion with his presence.
In his address, Chubaonen emphasised “We are constantly learning through the process of life,” he said. “True knowledge is never complete; it evolves with experience and time.”
Reflecting on the day’s celebrations, he highlighted how festivals were once considered cultural institutions by our forefathers—platforms for learning folk songs, dances, customs, and values. “In those times,” he said, “these festivals served as the best schools, nurturing and preserving our heritage.”
He urged the present generation to embrace technology not only for convenience but also as a powerful tool for cultural preservation.
Villages face population decline
Turning to the topic of population and census, he described it as a matter of grave concern. “While India is among the most populous nations in the world, our region—particularly the Northeast, and even more so our village—is experiencing an alarming decline in population,” he noted.
He pointed out that according to available data the number of deaths is surpassing the number of births in many villages. “This is a serious issue that requires deep reflection. While our national leaders are doing their part for the country, we, as children of this village, must also take responsibility for the future of our own communities.”
He stressed the importance of census accuracy and urged villagers to be meticulous when recording census data. “Population statistics are crucial indicators for development,” he stated. He warned that a continued drop in population could lead to significant consequences, stating factors such as natural disasters, famine, wars, and earthquakes contributes to it.
He also spoke about the importance of marital settlement within the community, stating it as closely linked to the encouragement of childbirth. This is our land, our village—we must protect and not let others take our place.”
Chubaonen also spoke about the importance of wise agricultural practices. Using the example of chemical fertilizers, he said: “Every technology or substance has its merits and demerits. Chemical fertilizers provide direct benefits to crops, but we must use them wisely and with awareness.”
He stressed the need for public health consciousness, encouraging individuals to be informed about the food they consume.
Addressing the topic of development, particularly in agriculture and allied sectors, Chubaonen emphasised that while many projects come with government subsidies, their success hinges on active community involvement. He stressed that development is not automatic; it requires collective effort. “Whatever development initiatives come from any department, we must take them up earnestly,” he stated. “Community participation is essential. We must be proactive, encourage one another, and contribute our efforts to make progress a reality.”
Imlikokba Imsong, Tatar, delivered the welcome address followed by a presentation on the “Significance of Moatsü Festival” by Nungsangmeren Jamir, Tatar. A series of cultural performances marked the celebration which also featured “Moatsü Wasu.”
