Daijiworld Media Network – Kohima

Kohima, Apr 6: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday called upon the people to embrace their roots, learn about their traditions, and honour their ancestors while celebrating festivals in a spirit of peace and unity.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Konyak Heritage Complex in Mon town, around 330 km from Kohima, Rio pledged to construct a women’s working hostel and the Konyak Union office at the same heritage site.

The complex was inaugurated jointly with union minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Sukanta Majumdar. The Chief Minister thanked all civil society groups and the district administration led by deputy commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma and Leangha Village for their support in completing the project.

Rio announced that the complex will be handed over to the Department of Underdeveloped Areas (DUDA) to manage it, while urging the local community to maintain and preserve it for future generations.

The North Eastern Council (NEC), under the Ministry of DoNER, sanctioned Rs 24 cr for the project. The state government also contributed to infrastructure, including road works.

Union minister Majumdar, expressing his delight in attending the event, praised the vibrant tradition of the Konyak tribe, one of Nagaland's largest communities. He described Nagaland as the “land of festivals” and highlighted the strong connection between agriculture and cultural celebrations.

He said that festivals like Aoleang Monyu, celebrated by the Konyak tribe, not only reflect tradition but also contribute to the nation’s cultural mosaic.

Earlier, Chief Minister Rio unveiled the Monolith to mark the occasion. The event began with a traditional Konyak welcome and ceremonial opening of the Konyak Aoleang Monyu festival.

Cultural performances from across the region added colour to the celebrations, including troupes from Pongchao (Arunachal Pradesh), Tai Ahom (Assam), and local groups from Leangha, Changnyu, and Wakching villages.