On April 15, 2025, the Parade Ground in Tuensang, Nagaland, played host to the 8th General Conference cum Cultural Fiesta of the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF). This significant event brought together students, community leaders, and government officials, emphasising the importance of collective engagement in the progress and preservation of Eastern Nagaland. The presence of the state’s Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, as the chief guest, amplified the significance of the occasion, providing a platform for the government to reiterate its commitment to the region’s development and for the student body to voice their aspirations and concerns. The event served as a vibrant confluence of cultural expression and crucial discussions on the socio-economic advancement of Eastern Nagaland.
Chief Minister Rio’s Keynote Address: Reaffirming Government’s Dedication
The focal point of the conference was the keynote address delivered by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio. In his address, Dr. Rio clearly reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his government to undertake all possible measures aimed at the upliftment of Eastern Nagaland. His reiteration served as a strong message of assurance to the students and the wider community of the eastern districts, acknowledging the unique challenges and developmental imperatives of the region. Dr. Rio’s presence and his emphatic pronouncements stress the government’s recognition of the need for focused attention and dedicated efforts to bridge the developmental gap between Eastern Nagaland and the rest of the state.
Acknowledging the Developmental Deficit in Eastern Nagaland
In a candid assessment of the prevailing situation, Chief Minister Rio openly acknowledged the significant developmental challenges that persist in the eastern part of Nagaland. He specifically highlighted critical sectors such as education, healthcare, road infrastructure, communication networks, and overall infrastructure development as areas requiring substantial improvement and investment. Dr. Rio’s forthright admission of these shortcomings demonstrated a clear understanding of the ground realities and the urgent need for targeted interventions to address these disparities. This acknowledgment laid the foundation for a more focused and effective approach towards accelerating development in the region.
Historical Context: Tracing the Roots of Underdevelopment
Chief Minister Rio delved into the region’s past administrative history. He pointed out that the eastern territories were historically left largely unadministered by the British colonial regime. It was only in 1957 that the British established their administrative headquarters in Tuensang, designating the area as the Naga Hills Tuensang Area. Dr. Rio contrasted this with the early exposure of mainland Nagaland to Christianity and modern education, highlighting how the delayed administrative integration of the eastern areas resulted in a late start in the crucial sectors of education and socio-economic progress. This historical context provided a crucial understanding of the deep-rooted challenges that continue to influence the developmental trajectory of Eastern Nagaland.
Emphasizing the Preservation of Naga Cultural Heritage
Despite the focus on development, Chief Minister Rio also emphasized the paramount importance of preserving the unique cultural and customary laws of the Naga people. He referenced the foresight of the British administration in enacting legislation to safeguard these invaluable traditions, which continue to be followed to this day. In this context, Dr. Rio passionately urged the student community, as the custodians of the future, to actively protect, uphold, and promote their rich historical, cultural, and traditional heritage. He emphasized that development should not come at the cost of cultural erosion but should rather be rooted in and enriched by the unique identity of the Naga people.
Commitment to Quality Education for All
Addressing the crucial sector of education, Chief Minister Rio reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing quality education to all, in line with the Government of India’s declaration of the Right to Education. He emphasized that Nagaland is actively engaged in the process of enhancing its educational infrastructure and curriculum to ensure that students are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete effectively with their peers in other parts of the country. Dr. Rio’s focus on quality education emphasizes its pivotal role in empowering the youth of Eastern Nagaland and enabling them to participate meaningfully in the state’s progress and development.
Strong Opposition to Scrapping the Free Movement Regime
A significant aspect of Chief Minister Rio’s address was the state government’s strong opposition to the proposed scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Indo-Myanmar border. This regime has facilitated cross-border movement for the Naga communities inhabiting both sides of the international boundary, allowing them to maintain their traditional social and cultural ties. Dr. Rio urged the administrative authorities to exercise utmost caution and diligence in issuing Inner Line Permits (ILPs) and indigenous certificates to prevent the influx of illegal migrants, thereby safeguarding the interests and identity of the indigenous Naga population while also advocating for the continuation of the FMR.
Call for Unity in the Naga Peace Process
Recognizing the long-standing issue of the Naga political problem, Chief Minister Rio made a fervent appeal to the various stakeholders involved in the peace process. He urged the Hohos (apex tribal bodies), tribal leaders, and national workers to come together, forge a strong bond of unity, and work collaboratively towards the successful conclusion of the Naga peace talks. Dr. Rio emphasized that a united front and a spirit of mutual understanding are essential to achieving a lasting and honourable solution to this protracted issue, which has significant implications for the future of Nagaland as a whole, including the eastern districts.
Gratitude and Inauguration of Cultural Events
Expressing his appreciation for the invitation to the general session, Chief Minister Rio thanked the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation for providing him with the platform to interact with the student community and address their concerns. Following his address, Dr. Rio formally declared the cultural feast open and inaugurated the vibrant cultural exhibition and the traditional tribal stalls. This symbolic gesture marked the commencement of the cultural segment of the conference, highlighting the rich traditions and artistic expressions of the various tribes of Eastern Nagaland.
Proceedings and Dignitary Presence
The inaugural session of the conference commenced with a solemn invocation offered by Rev. Imtiba Sangtam, the Executive Secretary of the United Sangtam Baptist Lithro Association (USBLA). This was followed by a welcome address delivered by the President of the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF), Chingmak Chang, who articulated the aspirations and concerns of the student community. Short but significant speeches were also delivered by the Minister for Housing and Mechanical, P. Bashangmongba Chang, and the President of the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), A. Chingmak Chang, representing key stakeholders in the region’s socio-political landscape. Further enriching the proceedings, solidarity speeches were presented by the President of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), Medovi Rhi, and a Tradigraphy presentation by CWS, highlighting the broader student movement’s support for the ENSF’s endeavors and the importance of preserving traditional knowledge. The Chief Minister was accompanied by a distinguished entourage of ministers, advisors, and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), underscoring the government’s collective engagement with the issues concerning Eastern Nagaland.
Celebrating Cultural Fusion
The evening session of the conference transitioned into a celebration of cultural diversity and artistic expression, featuring a folk fusion night. The Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, graced this session as the special guest. His presence further highlighted the government’s continued engagement with the youth and the cultural vibrancy of the region. The folk fusion night provided a platform for showcasing the unique musical traditions of Eastern Nagaland, blending traditional forms with contemporary influences, thereby fostering a sense of cultural pride and intergenerational connection.
A Renewed Commitment and Collaborative Spirit
The 8th General Conference cum Cultural Fiesta of the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation served as a significant platform for reaffirming the government’s commitment to the upliftment of Eastern Nagaland. Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio’s address underscored the government’s recognition of the developmental challenges, its understanding of the historical context, and its dedication to addressing the needs of the region in crucial sectors like education and infrastructure. The emphasis on preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Naga people and the call for unity in the Naga peace process further highlighted the holistic approach towards the progress and well-being of Eastern Nagaland. The active participation of student leaders, community representatives, and government officials underscored the importance of a collaborative spirit in achieving sustainable development and fostering a brighter future for the region. The event concluded with a renewed sense of hope and a strengthened commitment from all stakeholders to work together towards the comprehensive upliftment of Eastern Nagaland.