Mokokchung, February 26 (MTNews): Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Sharingain Longkumer, accompanied by scores of his native Ungma villagers, attended Angami Sekrenyi festival at Tuophema village today as special guest, which was celebrated with Nagaland Chief Minister, Neihiu Rio, as chief host. “It was 21 years ago, on February 25, 2001, that a strong delegation of 42 Tatars from Ungma accompanied former Chief Minister and Governor, Dr. SC Jamir, to Tuophema village in celebrating Sekrenyi,” Longkumer recalled while narrating the genesis of Ungma-Tuophema ties.
He said that the same year, Chief Minister Rio, who was PWD Minister then, led a strong contingent from Tuophema comprising of village elders, Tatars, and GBs who visited Ungma village on March 8. “After 21 years, we are together yet again amongst our beloved people and elders and Tatars,” he said, and added, “Ungma is grateful to our Chief Minister for always remembering us at all times in socio-economic development and human resource development till date.” He also assured that Ungma will stay true to the spirit of brotherhood and friendship with Tuophema for all years and generations to come.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in his speech reiterated the stand of the government to promote major festivals of all tribes to preserve the rich culture and traditions of the state. While emphasising the need to preserve the legacy and heritage of the Nagas, Rio asserted that the “unique history, tradition and cultural practices” of the state was attracting many visitors from different parts of the world.
The event was marked by cultural dance and folk performances from Tuophema and Ungma villages, including Tuophema Students and Suyim Students.