Kohima, March 25 (IANS). Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday said that physical integration of Naga dominated areas may not be possible at present, but maintaining unity at political, cultural and social levels is very important for a permanent solution to the Naga issue.
Addressing the Tenyimi Youth Cultural Festival organized at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama near Kohima, Rio said Naga integration has been a major demand for a long time and the Nagaland Assembly has also passed several resolutions in support of it. However, he said that the need of the hour is to strengthen mutual relations beyond regional boundaries.
He said communities like Tenyimi, which are spread across different states and regions, are connected through their shared traditions, culture and values. Such unity strengthens the Naga identity and helps it gain wider recognition.
Emphasizing the importance of culture and language, the Chief Minister also appealed for wide propagation of Tenyidi language and suggested including it in the school curriculum. He appreciated the efforts of organizations like Ura Academy.
Describing youth as custodians of tradition, Rio called on them to preserve cultural values and develop skills for the future. He said that traditions, customs, food and history bind the Naga society together and everyone should work together for a dignified solution.
He also said that the central government has recognized the Naga identity, exemplified by provisions such as the Inner Line Permit under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873 and Article 371A of the Constitution.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang also described the Tenyimi community as a family bound by common heritage and traditions and stressed the need for collective efforts to preserve its cultural heritage.
Organized by Tenyimi Union Nagaland, the festival showcased traditional music, dance and cultural activities, strengthening the message of unity through cultural heritage.
–IANS
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