The Tsüngremmung festival celebration in Mangmetong village, Mokokchung was marked by grandeur as Governor of Nagaland, La Ganesan, along with Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, legislators, and officials, graced the event today.
Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, Governor La Ganesan highlighted the significance of the peaceful atmosphere in the state that allows such festivals to be celebrated with joy. He urged the people to foster the spirit of unity and peace, emphasizing the importance of preserving and passing down the essence and good practices of their rich culture to future generations.
The Governor praised the state’s progress in recent times, acknowledging that Nagaland has overcome past struggles that hindered peace and development. He stated that with peace prevailing, the state is witnessing development in all sectors. La Ganesan proudly mentioned Nagaland’s commendable contribution to the arts, particularly in music, citing the recent achievements of the Nagaland Chamber Choir, which won accolades at the prestigious World Choir Games, representing the country.
Y Patton calls for emulating ‘Survival Mokokchung’ across districts to tackle illegal immigration
In his speech, Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton expressed his excitement to be a part of the Tsüngremmung festival. He extended greetings to the Ao community and praised their contributions as pioneers in various fields like Christianity, education, music, and fashion, as well as their leadership in politics and society. He emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting cultural legacies for future generations.
He highlighted the significance of merging past traditions with modern-day changes without losing touch with their roots. Deputy CM Patton acknowledged the strong leadership of the Ao community in political and religious spheres, mentioning specific members who are part of the government.
He lauded the ‘Survival Mokokchung’ initiative undertaken by the Ao Students’ Conference to address the issue of illegal immigrants in the region and called for similar cooperation from citizens in other districts to prevent further influx.
“The Ao community has set important benchmarks in our society and till today, I remain impressed with the Survival Mokokchung initiated by Ao Students’ Conference when illegal immigrants were flushed out from Mokokchung and our local youth, men and women have taken up their works today,” Patton said. “This should be emulated in every district,” he asserted.
Patton warned about the recent release of the National Register of Citizens by the Assam Government, which may lead to some people trying to infiltrate neighboring states in search of new homes. He informed that the Nagaland Government is on high alert at all entry points from Assam to prevent illegal immigration. However, he emphasized that the government alone cannot effectively curb this issue and called upon all citizens, particularly those from districts bordering Assam, to support the government’s efforts in checking the influx of illegal immigrants.
Deputy CM Patton also praised the efforts of the Nagaland Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, in promoting cultural heritage through annual festivals like Hornbill and Mini Hornbill Festivals.
He encouraged everyone to practice thanksgiving and healthy living not only during festivities but throughout their lives.
Imkong L Imchen, Advisor IPR and Soil & Water Conservation, and Thsuvise Phoji, Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, also delivered short speeches during the celebration.
The event showcased the vibrant cultural heritage of the Ao community, with traditional dance and music performances stealing the limelight. The festival served as a platform for the community to come together, celebrate their roots, and strengthen their bonds.