The Sumi Kukami Hoho has urged the Nagaland Staff Selection Board (NSSB) to reschedule the Combined Staff Recruitment Examination (CSRE) scheduled for November 14, 2026, stating that the examination date coincides with Ahuna, the traditional harvest festival of the Sumi community.
In a representation, signed by Akukau Hetoho S Zhimomi, president, and Akukatou Kavito Yeptho, general secretary of the Sumi Kukami Hoho and addressed to the Chairman of the NSSB, the Hoho, representing Sumi village chieftains and traditional leadership, expressed concern that conducting a major state-level recruitment examination on the festival day could create difficulties for candidates wishing to participate in both the examination and the cultural observance.
The Hoho described Ahuna as an occasion of profound cultural, historical and social significance for the Sumi people, forming an integral part of their identity, traditions and collective heritage. It also pointed out that the festival is recognised in the annual cultural calendar of the Government of Nagaland, with its observance associated with November 14.
According to the representation, scheduling the CSRE on the same day could place aspiring candidates in a difficult position, forcing them to choose between an important employment opportunity and their traditional and cultural commitments.
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The Hoho acknowledged the NSSB’s responsibility to conduct recruitment examinations fairly, transparently and impartially, clarifying that its appeal was neither intended to seek preferential treatment nor to obstruct the recruitment process. Instead, it described the representation as a request for fair consideration, cultural sensitivity and equal opportunity for candidates.
The organisation has, therefore, requested the Board to shift the examination to a suitable alternative date that does not coincide with Ahuna. It has also urged the NSSB to take major traditional festivals and significant community observances into account while preparing examination schedules in the future, so that candidates from all communities can participate in important recruitment examinations without being placed in a position of cultural or personal conflict.
Emphasising the importance of balancing cultural preservation with professional aspirations, the Hoho stated that respect for traditional institutions and the pursuit of educational and employment opportunities should complement each other rather than compel young people to choose between them.
The Hoho expressed hope that the Board would give the appeal serious consideration and take appropriate action in the interest of candidates, the Sumi community and the people of Nagaland.
