Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday hailed Nagaland as a “land of courage, valour, and brave-hearted people,” while lauding the Marwari community’s resilience, service, and deep integration with the cultural fabric of the State. He was addressing a felicitation programme organised by the Marwari community in Dimapur at Lions Club of Dimapur, during his maiden visit to Nagaland.
“When I came here, I felt that this land—Nagaland—is truly a land of courage, valor, and brave-hearted people,” Birla said, praising the spirit of the people of Nagaland and the contributions of those who have made the State their home.
He said the journey of the Marwari community—from their birthplaces across India to their present workplaces in the Northeast—has been one of “challenge, struggle, and triumph.” He recalled meeting Marwaris in different Northeastern states and hearing “stories filled with courage and hardship,” adding that through determination, hard work, and self-confidence, they have successfully embraced the cultural heritage of their adopted states.
“Wherever they live, the Marwari community blends so beautifully with the traditions, customs, and work culture of the region that it feels as though they were born and brought up there,” he remarked. “That is why this community always stands at the forefront in times of disaster, crisis, or challenge—with a spirit of service, sacrifice, and commitment.”
Birla said the story of the community’s forefathers—many of whom came to Nagaland over a century ago—serves as an inspiration to the younger generation. “It teaches us that no matter how tough the challenges are, with hard work and confidence, one can overcome them and achieve success,” he said.
Turning to the region’s development, the Speaker noted that “in the last decade, new doors of development have opened in the Northeastern states,” highlighting the immense potential for growth in infrastructure, connectivity, and industry. “If we are to realize the dream of a developed India, we must work together in harmony with Nagaland’s culture, its work ethic, and its spirit of self-reliance—because these are the foundations of Atmanirbhar Bharat,” he stated.
He praised the people of Nagaland as creative, innovative, and hardworking, capable of “working courageously even in difficult circumstances,” and said that their qualities serve as an inspiration for all Indians.
“India’s true strength lies in its diversity—diversity of culture, food, attire, and customs. Despite all these differences, it is democracy that unites us all,” Birla said, calling India “the world’s largest and most vibrant democracy.” He emphasized that the people’s faith in democracy has been the key to India’s progress and that the country continues to advance in every sphere because of its democratic spirit.
Referring to the transformation of the Northeast, Birla said, “Whether it be transportation, infrastructure, railway connectivity, road networks, air links, or digital connectivity—India is progressing rapidly in all these sectors.” He added that India has now become “one of the world’s most attractive destinations for investment.”
The Lok Sabha Speaker being felicitated by the Agarwal community in Dimapur
Encouraging continued hard work, Birla said, “We must continue to work harder and with even greater dedication to take India to new heights.” He commended the Marwari community for generating employment through business, industry, and services, and urged everyone to see Nagaland’s natural beauty as an opportunity to promote tourism and sustainable development.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
“Nagaland’s natural beauty and serene environment will surely make it one of the leading destinations for both domestic and international tourists,” he said, urging collective efforts to attract investment and promote industries and agriculture in the State.
Calling India “the land of opportunity,” Birla said, “On this land of opportunity, we must continue to work with even greater dedication. The Marwari community has always been known for its work ethic and perseverance—for going where others do not, for creating employment and industries, for developing trade, and for contributing to the local economy while embracing local culture.”
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, the Lok Sabha Speaker said it was his long-standing wish to visit Nagaland. “Today, I am very happy that this is my first visit here,” he said, acknowledging community leaders including Basu Damani, Mahesh Agarwal, Mahesh Kotecha, Bhajan, Anil Sethi, Gopal Sharma, Sanjeev Singh, Dr. Sharma, Anil Tongia, Manoj Bhattacharya, and Sanjay Jaiswal for their contributions to Nagaland’s development.
“Your collective efforts are helping build a stronger Nagaland and a stronger India,” Birla concluded.
Prominent social leader Basu Damani extended a heartfelt welcome to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla during a felicitation programme organized by the Marwari community in Dimapur, calling the Speaker’s visit to Nagaland “a moment of great honour and pride” for the entire community.
Nagaland Bhojpuri Samaj felicitating Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Damani described Om Birla as “the pride of our community and the entire Marwari society,” and expressed deep gratitude for his gracious presence on what he called “the sacred land of Nagaland.”
He further extended his appreciation to all the officials, organizers, and community members who worked tirelessly to make the Speaker’s visit possible and successful.
Highlighting the inclusive spirit of the occasion, Damani noted that not only members of the Marwari community but also leaders and representatives from other minority Hindu communities were present to welcome the Lok Sabha Speaker.
Senior member of the Marwari community, Om Prakash Sethi delivered the vote of thanks.
After the programme, the Lok Sabha Speaker left for Kohima, where he was received by Nagaland Legislative Assembly Speaker, Sharingain Longkumer and Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye at Kohima Helipad.
