Eco-Park inaugurated, celebrating Japan–Naga friendship rooted in WWII History
The Kohima Peace Memorial & Eco-Park was inaugurated on November 29 by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who described the project as a landmark that “reminds us of our past, our present, and a promise for our future.” The inauguration, held ahead of the Hornbill Festival, drew dignitaries, senior officials and invited guests.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Rio said Kohima’s hills still echo the courage, sacrifice and resilience witnessed during the Second World War, particularly the Battle of Kohima, “one of the fiercest battles fought.”
He said the new Memorial and Eco-Park also reflect Japan–Naga friendship, with several components developed in partnership with Japanese contributors. These elements, he added, “make this a very important place in the heart of the town.”
Sharing personal reflections, the Chief Minister recalled that his father served in the British Indian Army’s eastern front and was a recipient of the King George VI Medal. Rio said stories shared by elders who lived through the war continue to shape his understanding of its suffering and legacy. He noted that Japanese visitors still travel to Kohima to pay respect to their fallen soldiers and stressed that “our stories were never told, but now researchers are documenting Naga perspectives.”
Recalling his visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Park, he highlighted the “inhuman cost of war” and urged schools and colleges to bring students to the Memorial to learn from history. Rio also acknowledged Japan’s ongoing support to Nagaland, including livelihood programmes, conservation initiatives and the upcoming 400-bedded hospital to be jointly run by Japanese and Naga professionals.
Expressing gratitude to landowners, the village community, the Forest Department, architect Richard Belho and all teams involved, Rio said the project was “not just a vision, but has been implemented and made a reality.”
Earlier, PCCF & HoFF Vedpal Singh said the inauguration marks the formal opening of what is expected to become one of Kohima’s most popular public spaces. In his welcome address, Environment & Forest Minister C. L. John said the Memorial and Eco-Park represent a Japan–Nagaland friendship “born out of World War II and matured into a relationship of peace,” adding that the space will promote peace, culture and livelihood opportunities for local SHGs.
Advisor to the Chief Minister and IDAN Chairman Abu Metha presented the historical background of the site, calling Kohima a battlefield that “changed the course of world history.” He said the Naga people have turned the painful legacy of war into a message of peace, concluding with: “Let us remember two words for the world never again.”