Nagaland Roads and Bridges Minister G Kaito Aye on September 21 called for greater unity and harmony among the Naga people, urging the younger generation to move beyond tribal differences and work collectively towards strengthening society.
Aye was speaking at a cultural fiesta organised by the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) in Kohima on the theme “Together in Culture – Together in Harmony”. The event brought together student bodies representing 17 Naga tribes and featured presentations showcasing their respective cultures and traditions.
Addressing the gathering, Aye said culture remained an important part of Naga identity and stressed the need to sustain initiatives that encourage interaction and understanding among different communities.
“We may have a different history, but today we are Naga. Unless we become Naga, nothing will progress. We will become weaker again,” Aye said.
The minister appreciated the ASU initiative and said its message of unity should reach different parts of Nagaland. He urged the Naga people to recognise and support one another and work together to improve living conditions, irrespective of tribal differences.
Aye also placed emphasis on the role of young people in shaping the future of the state. Referring to them as the leaders of tomorrow, he encouraged students to focus on their education and prepare themselves for opportunities in different fields.
He described education as their “first weapon” and advised students not to lose hope because of uncertainties surrounding employment.
The minister also urged young people to take an active role in addressing social issues, particularly alcoholism and drug abuse. He cautioned them against allowing technology to turn into a source of addiction and encouraged responsible use of digital platforms.
Aye further called on students to identify specific shortcomings in government functioning and bring them to the attention of the authorities so that corrective steps could be considered. He stressed that constructive engagement with the government system was important in addressing problems.
Speaking about the relationship between unity and social harmony, the minister said unity could be achieved only when people maintained peace, understood one another and were willing to share their problems.
“Unity comes through harmony only, through peace only,” he said.
Angami Public Organisation president Thejao Vihienuo described the cultural fiesta as a celebration of Naga identity and the diversity of its traditions. He encouraged young participants to take pride in their cultural heritage while respecting the traditions of other communities.
Vihienuo also urged the participants to use the event as an opportunity to build friendships and expand their social networks beyond their own communities.
ASU president Diezevisie Nakhro said the fiesta was organised to celebrate the diverse traditions, talents and cultures of the Naga people and promote greater unity among them.
Nakhro said preparations for the event had been underway since last year and thanked various tribal student organisations for extending their support.
