KOHIMA, AUGUST 14: The 80th Naga Independence Day was commemorated at Naga Solidarity Park, Kohima, on Friday, with speakers calling for greater Naga unity, restoration of trust and a renewed commitment to integrity, hard work and faith.
Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) President Nuheymong Yimchunger urged Nagas to rise above geographical, tribal and administrative divisions, stressing that the present generation has a responsibility to shape a peaceful and united future.Guest speaker Advocate Tongpok Pongener reflected on the significance of the August 14 declaration 80 years ago and highlighted the values of unity, hard work, integrity and responsibility upheld by Naga forefathers.
Referring to past conflicts and divisions, he called for the rebuilding of trust across tribal, village and social boundaries, while urging students and the wider society to strengthen relationships through interaction and understanding.Pongener also questioned whether Nagas are truly independent today and called for greater responsibility, self-reliance and integrity. In his concluding appeal, he urged the people and leaders to sincerely turn towards God, saying that faith and unity could contribute not only to a political solution but also to a stronger and more united Naga society.
The programme included the hoisting of the Naga national flag, an invocation, cultural performances, a folk song, a poem and prayers for the Naga nation. The commemoration brought together Naga leaders, church representatives, tribal and student leaders, teachers and students to mark 80 years of the Naga Independence declaration.
