The Tsungiki-Philimi Doyang Union (TPDU) Community celebrated its 25th Anniversary with great fervor and unity today, marking a significant milestone in the community’s rich tradition of sustainable fishing practices. The event took place at Jendong Ezhu/Tsutsuye (between Tsungiki and Philimi village) with Abel P. Shohe, Secretary of the Nagaland Government Registered Class-I Contractors Union (NGRC-I CU), as the special guest.

In his keynote address, Shohe spoke on the deep-rooted heritage of the community’s fishing tradition, which dates back over a century, even though the Union Itself was officially formed in 2000. He emphasized the cultural and economic potential of the celebration, encouraging Tsungiki and Philimi villages to formalize the event into a recognized festival. He proposed fixed dates and structured programs to promote tourism, cultural preservation, and revenue generation drawing parallels with the Hornbill Festival. Shohe further urged the community to invite neighboring villages and tribes, fostering unity and cultural exchange.

Stressing the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, he recommended documenting the week-long preparations involved in the fishing event — such as gathering logs and piscicidal plant roots — to ensure they are passed down to future generations. He also called for improved organization, stronger regulations, and environmental stewardship to protect the rivers and natural resources. Expressing gratitude for being part of the celebration, Shohe encouraged community ownership in scaling up the festival and exploring partnerships with the government for greater support.

Hokiye Assumi, Chairman of TPDU, delivered the welcome address, where he expressed gratitude: “Today, by God’s grace, the weather is good. To all who have come, I extend my greetings. Jubilee is jubilee, no matter what kind — everyone here will be blessed. We should be thankful that we can celebrate this 25th year together.”

The event featured a brief history”of the Tsungiki and Philimi fishing practices shared by Vilhozu Wotsa and Tsenyimthung Kikon, both former chairmen of TPDU. A special prayer for TPDU was offered by Pastor Vikashe Kiho of Philimi Baptist Church, followed by a lively special appearance from the trio Thunglamo, Bubu and David Ngullie, adding a vibrant touch to the event.

W. Wojanthung, Secretary of TPDU, delivered the vote of thanks, and the program concluded with a benediction by Dr. Nagaho Zhimo, Pastor of Rotomi Baptist Church. A solemn prayer was also offered by Pastor T. Mhao Kikon of Tsungiki Baptist Church before the traditional ritual of pounding the piscicidal plant root into the river — a symbolic act that holds cultural and communal significance.

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Later speaking with the media, Janthungo Kikon, Chairman Tsungiki, while thanking everyone for their involvement in the 25th edition of TSUNGIKI – PHILIMI community said that the community fishing retraces back to forefathers time. There were no such thing as Sema – Lotha Union during that time but after the formation of Union this practice of community fishing has landed a remarkable 25 years, said Kikon.

He also remarked that the community fishing is not for business purposes but better camaraderie between the Semas and Lothas. There has been instances in the past of tribal altercations but after forming TPDU we live as brothers, Kikon also added.

K Vikikhe Sema , Akukatuo Philimi Head GB also emphasized that after the formation of TPDU , community fishing has been practiced exactly like how the forefathers have doing since time immemorial. Citing the significance of the fishing practice, Sema noted that the positive aspects of hosting this community fishing practice helps unite every individual to have a time of bonding. “We hope that in the coming years we hope to make it a grand celebration,” said Sema.

Brief History about Tsungiki- Philimi Community Fishing: 

Tsungiki village was established nearly 530 years ago, and since time immemorial, its people have practiced a traditional method of fishing, commonly known today as “Community Fishing” with use of piscicidal plants.

This practice was often associated with changes in leadership. During earlier times, the village head, known as ‘Pvüti,’ played a significant role, and occasionally, the village would invite neighboring communities, such as Philimi and Rotomi, to participate.

In the past, strict protocols were followed in initiating and marking the day of community fishing. Only male members were permitted to take part, which also allowed the village to gather statistics on the male population as they assembled for the event.