The 8th Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) Cultural Fiesta cum general conference began today at Tuensang HQ under the theme “Deliverance through ethnicity concord”. The event will continue till April 17.
The Inaugural was graced by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, who acknowledged the pioneers and former ENSF leaders for leading and guiding the students.
With the Government of India declaring the Right to Education for all the ages, Rio stated that Nagaland is in the process of providing quality education which can enable the students to complete with other. “In Nagaland, we are only pursuing just to increase the literacy rate but we want quality education so that children become responsible citizens to take forward our Naga community,” said Rio.
He also asserted that the Eastern Part of Nagaland is called Backward because Eastern areas were left unadministered by the British. Only in the year 1957 it established it’s headquarter at Tuensang as Naga Hills Tuensang Area. While in the mainland of Nagaland, Christianity came early followed by Education this is why the Eastern Naga areas started very late in education, he added.
In this regard, the Chief Minister admitted that there is so much to be done in the field of education, healthcare, improvement in roads, communication and infrastructure development in the Eastern Part of Nagaland. He assured that his Government is committed in doing everything in their part for the upliftment of the Eastern Nagaland.
Lauding the ENSF for celebrating strengthening one’s culture through events such as the cultural fiesta cum general conference, Rio also affirmed the government’s continued support in safeguarding the rich culture tradition. The Chief Minister also encouraged the inculcation of one’s culture in educational instutions by introducing lessons for folk songs and dance, traditional storytelling and traditional wears among students.
The CM also strongly urged every Hohos, tribal leaders and national workers to unite and formed a strong bond between them for successful conclusion of Peace Talk. Rio also acknowledged that his Government is strongly opposing the restriction of Free Movement at the bordering Area inhabited by the Nagas.
He urged the Students’ Communities, Administration and Police to be very careful in issuing the Inner Line Permit and Indigenous Certificate to the illegal migrate. Asserting that Nagas are very lucky because the British have passed an Act to safeguard the unique Cultural and Customary law of Nagas, which we follow till now, Rio urged the students community to protect and uphold the rich historical, cultural and tradition of the people in the days to come.
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In a brief speech, P. Bashangmongba Chang, Minister of Housing and Mechanical, called upon the young educated generation of Eastern Nagaland to start a movement : one that digs deep into the past, uncover the missing links, and find ways to connect them to the present. “Our forefathers lived with wisdom, resilience and unity. They built a legacy of peaceful coexistence not just among the eastern Nagaland but with the entire Naga community. History is not just something to remember but it is something to reclaim, to learn from, and to build upon,” remarked Chang.
Asserting that development does not come from wishful thinking, the Minister emphasised on the importance of hard work, discipline and dedication, and honesty by changing oneself. Chang also drew attention to the challenges and advantages of the digital age which is shaping every aspect of our lives. “It has given us easy access to education, instant communication and opportunities beyond borders but it has also created new challenges. Access use of electronic gadgets has led to less interaction and decline in critical thinking and a weakening of cultural values. So let us not allow technology to control us instead use it wisely to empower ourselves and community,” advised Chang.
He also encouraged the gathering to remember that culture is the foundation of one’s identity shaping who we are and where we come from. He also advised that it is the role of the students community to preserve and promote the rich culture heritage.
Other highlights of the day were invocation by Rev. Imtiba Sangtam Executive Secretary, USBLA; welcome address by President ENSF, Chingmak Chang; solidarity speech delivered by President NSF, Medovi Rhi and Tradigraphy by CWS.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister of Power & Parliamentary Affairs, K.G. Kenye; Advisor Tribal Affairs and Election, H. Tovihoto Ayemi; Advisor Minority Affairs and Sericulture, Imkongmar; Advisor Fire & Emergency Services, Home Guards and Relief and Rehabilitation Department, S. Kiusumew Yimchunger; Advisor IT, Communication, Economic and Statistics and Evaluation, Sethrongkyu; MLA, Lina Onen Chang; MLA, Imtichoba Chang; MLA, Benei M Lamthiu and host of dignitaries.
Later the Chief Minister declared the Cultural Feast and inaugurated the Cultural Exhibition & Tribal Stalls.
In the evening session, Advisor to Chief Minister and Chairman IDAN, Abu Metha graced the Folk Fusion Night as Special Guest.
