Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the Tsüngkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival, the post-harvest winter festival of the Yimkhiung Naga community, held at Shamator, adding prominence to the cultural celebration that witnessed a historic declaration of brotherhood between the Tangkhul Naga community of Manipur and the Yimkhiung community of Nagaland.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister lauded the Yimkhiung community for preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage through Tsüngkamnyo, also known as Zhihsütinyö or Nyo-to-Nyo. He wished the people a bountiful harvest in 2026 and stated that Tsungkamnyo symbolizes happiness and friendship—not only within families but also by welcoming tribes beyond borders, fostering peace and unity.
Dr. Rio noted that the Mini Hornbill Festival has evolved from a roadshow concept, and today the Hornbill Festival is not only a state festival but is widely recognized at the national level. He highlighted that in the previous edition, six countries participated internationally. He also recalled that the British had witnessed the strong governance and independent spirit of the Nagas, which led to the recognition of the Nagas as a unique people and the introduction of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873 to protect Naga traditions and customs.
He further shared that during the last Hornbill Festival, some international participants faced visa restrictions due to national policies. The Government of Nagaland, through a cabinet meeting, had written to the Centre to seek relaxation of such restrictions. Referring to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Rio spoke about the vision of “Viksit Bharat”, aiming to make India a developed nation by 2047, and urged everyone to focus on all-round development.
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The Chief Minister also highlighted the landmark friendship forged between the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), calling it a true reflection of the Government of Nagaland’s motto, “Unity”. He expressed hope that this friendship would serve as a bridge toward unity among all Nagas making Naga-inhabited areas the most peaceful through brotherhood and mutual respect.
Sword Vashum, President of TNL, thanked the Yimkhiung Tribal Council for the invitation and in the true Christian spirit, soughed forgiveness for the past misunderstandings. He assured stronger ties between the two communities, emphasizing their shared history and brotherhood since time immemorial. He also invited the YTC to participate in the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival on February 15.
S Throngso, President of YTC, expressed gratitude to the Tangkhul delegation led by Sword Vashum for attending and making the festival more meaningful. He acknowledged the invitation to the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival, accepted the apologies extended by TNL and likewise apologized for any past wrongdoings. He emphasized burying the past and working together for unity and peace in the future. The declaration of mutual respect and understanding between the two communities was officially read out by the YTC President.
A Chingmak Chang, President of ENPO, applauded the historic friendship between the Tangkhul and Yimkhiung communities, stating that such unity strengthens ties with the people of Eastern Nagaland as a whole. He also commended the YTC for organizing the grand event.
Advisor, S Kiusumew spoke on the significance of Tsungkamnyo, describing it as a festival rooted in year-long preparation by forefathers. He urged the present generation living in an era of peace and development, to act responsibly and work toward a better future.
The festival, marking the conclusion of the agricultural season, showcased vibrant displays of traditional songs, folk dances, customary rituals, indigenous games, and cultural performances by village troupes. Traditional attire and symbolic headgear reflecting ancestral identity and craftsmanship were among the highlights of the programme.
A major highlight of the event was the formal signing and declaration of brotherhood between the Tangkhul community of Manipur and the Yimkhiung community of Nagaland. Leaders and elders from both communities reaffirmed their shared heritage and pledged to strengthen ties based on peace, mutual respect, and cooperation. The declaration, carried out in accordance with traditional customs, was hailed as a strong message of unity among Naga communities transcending state boundaries.
Community feasts and ritual observances led by elders further enriched the celebrations, with active participation from youths and cultural groups, reflecting collective harmony and cultural pride.
The second day of the Tsungkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival was also graced by Deputy Chief Minister, Y Patton; Minister for Forest & Environment, CL John; MLA & Advisor HG&CD and F&ES, S Kiusumew; Advisor for YRS, S Keoshu Yimchunger along with other dignitaries and officials.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister also inaugurated several key government offices at Shamator, including the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) office, Deputy Commissioner’s office, Youth Resources and Sports office, Superintendent of Police (SP) office, Sericulture office, and District Programme Officer’s (DPRO) office, aimed at strengthening administrative outreach and service delivery in the region.
The Tsüngkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival concluded on a note of unity and cultural pride, with the presence of the Chief Minister and the landmark brotherhood declaration underscoring the festival’s broader message of peace, harmony, and cultural continuity.
