Pathso Shingtap celebrated the grand Khautshauhsie Festival of the Khiamniungan Tribe on 14 January 2025 at Panso HQ, Noklak district. The program was graced by Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, and Minister for Tribal Affairs & Election, Tovihoto Ayemi. It featured cultural display by various cultural troupes and feasting.
In his address, Minister Metsubo Jamir highlighted the significance of festivals as a time for reconciliation and unity, emphasizing that they go beyond celebrating the harvest.
Speaking on the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) in the Indo-Myanmar border, Jamir expressed optimism that the aspirations for FNT would eventually be realized. “FNT was a dream but will come true”, he stated.
Further, the Minister urged the people to take leadership roles in bringing development to the region, stating that the remoteness of the area is not an excuse for underdevelopment. He encouraged the judicious use of development funds and stressed the importance of preserving culture and language.
Jamir also assured to upgrade the Panso Primary Health Centre (PHC) and to establish a State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD) training facility.
Earlier, he inaugurated the Block Development Office at Panso Headquarters and unveiled the monolith.
Tovihoto Ayemi, Minister for Tribal Affairs & Election, Government of Nagaland, extended warm festival greetings to the community and praised the diversity of the Naga people, who coexist harmoniously despite belonging to smaller tribes. Highlighting the government’s commitment to equal development, he stated that efforts are being made to ensure justice for every district.
Speaking about Noklak, one of Nagaland’s youngest districts, he said that it has many areas for growth and development. Ayemi urged the people to place their trust in the government and the District Administration whose collective efforts can bring better development.
Significance of Khautshauhsie Festival was briefed by M Lusha, Convener, Planning Committee, where he stated that it is celebrated in the first month of the year making the end to all agricultural activities. The name Khautshauhsie is derived from two words – ‘Khautshauh’ meaning bamboo mug with a straw and ‘sie’ refers to brew of rice beer.
The program was chaired by Sangtsoi M and Peshem P, invocation was pronounced by Pastor T Langshie, PTBT, welcome address by L Buming, President, Pathso Range Public Organisation, and special number was presented by Lengnyu youths and Kingniu King Band.
The vote of thanks was conveyed by Benei M Lamthiu, MLA & DPDB Chairman, Noklak. Meanwhile, the benediction was pronounced by Pastor Mokom, Pathso Baptist Church.
