DC Longleng W Manpai Phom with the awardees during the 74th Phom Day celebrated at the Public Ground, Longleng on June 6. (DIPR Photo)
Longleng, June 6 (MExN): The 74th Phom Day, observed annually as a Peace Day marking the end of the Head-Hunting Era and the dawn of peace and harmony in Phom land, was celebrated at the Public Ground, Longleng on June 6.
Deputy Commissioner Longleng, W Manpai Phom, attended as the special guest and unfurled the Phom Day flag, signalling the formal commencement of the occasion. The Phom Day Anthem was presented by the Medical Ward Fellowship, stated a DIPR report.
Delivering the Phom Day message, the DC said the 74th edition of the observance was being celebrated by upholding peace and carrying forward the vision of past leaders, as elders and community members gathered to mark the occasion.
Acknowledging that the programme was held under the guidance of the Phom Day Commission and the Phom People's Council (PPC), he recalled the comprehensive significance of Phom Day and urged attendees to remember its core message, peace in Phom area and beyond.
Emphasising the need to keep in mind “what we are and who we are,” the DC advised the gathering to celebrate the day with the commitment shown by their elders. He stressed that the purpose of Phom Day, as envisioned by past visionary leaders, was to foster peace and harmony so that the community may receive blessings from the Almighty God.
He reminded the gathering that peace in the current generation depends on every individual's conduct, government officials, public leaders, and village functionaries alike. “We all have to self-examine ourselves and eradicate our selfish interest but work for the common cause for our tribe, for our village, and for the common welfare of the people. Only then can 'Peace' arrive,” the DC stated.
The DC took the salute from parade contingents comprising students from various Schools and Higher Secondary Schools under Longleng town, Scouts and Guides, and Yingli College, Longleng.
The NI Jamir Academic Excellence Awards were also presented by the special guest during the occasion.
The programme commenced with an invocation prayer by Chaplain, Sangtam Baptist Church, Longleng, followed by a welcome address by PPC President YB Angam. The programme was chaired by Yathanla and Phakmei.
Key highlights of the proceedings included “My Legacy,” proposed by former PPC President P Pükyong Phom; a solidarity message delivered by Commandant, 12th NAP (IR) Chingtok, Imtitoshi; a peace folk fusion presented by Chingnyi N Phom and Chingmei Phom; “Towards the Platinum: Peace, Beneficiaries and the Obligations,” pronounced by Y Nuklu Phom; affirmation of the Phom Day Covenant by Longleng District Dobashis; and a prayer of blessings pronounced by Women Secretary, PBCA, Angbhenla.
The daylong celebration featured cultural performances by troops from Hukphang Bühü Longleng and Oushok Khongmeila. The festivities concluded with a penalty shoot-out and a volleyball exhibition match organised by the organising committee.
