Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav.
Kohima, August 14 (MExN): Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Friday said the state’s youth, women and farmers remain central to the vision of a “peaceful, progressive and prosperous Nagaland.” He called on citizens to work together “beyond differences of tribe, region, language, religion or political affiliation” ahead of the nation’s 80th Independence Day.
In his address to the people of Nagaland on the eve of the celebrations, the Governor said the state is “blessed with vibrant cultures, rich traditions and resilient communities,” and that its strength lies in “its youth, women, farmers, entrepreneurs, artisans, public servants and community leaders” who continue to drive development.
He said he was “encouraged by the growing emphasis on education, skill development, entrepreneurship, sports and innovation” among Nagaland’s young people, describing them as possessing “immense talent and potential” capable of excelling not just within the state but on national and international platforms. It was, he said, “our collective responsibility to create an environment that enables them to realise their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The Governor devoted particular attention to the role of women, saying they “continue to make invaluable contributions in education, healthcare, agriculture, entrepreneurship, governance and social development” across Nagaland. “Their participation and leadership are essential for building a stronger and more inclusive future,” he remarked.
Calling farmers and rural communities “the backbone of our economy,” Yadav said their hard work “sustains livelihoods and ensures food security,” and pressed for continued efforts to improve agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices and creating better market opportunities for the farmers.
On development, the Governor pointed to the state government’s focus on infrastructure, digital connectivity, healthcare services and social welfare initiatives, saying roads, communication networks, educational institutions and healthcare facilities were “vital foundations for progress.” He, however, cautioned that citizens must become “active partners” in this process rather than passive beneficiaries.
Yadav raised concern on issues of unemployment, substance abuse, environmental degradation and social divisions as pressing challenges, saying their solution “lies not only in government programmes but also in community participation, responsible citizenship and a shared sense of purpose.”
He also spoke of Nagaland’s cultural heritage, saying its traditions “teach us the values of mutual respect, cooperation and harmony” that remain “as relevant today as they were for previous generations,” and urged people to preserve their cultural identity “while embracing the opportunities of a rapidly changing world.”
Placing the state’s progress in the national context, the Governor said India, guided by the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” was working to build a future that is “prosperous, inclusive, innovative and sustainable,” and that the country had made strides over eight decades in agriculture, industry, science and technology, space exploration, education and healthcare.
He paid homage to “the countless freedom fighters, visionaries and patriots” whose sacrifices secured India’s independence, saying their “courage, determination and unwavering faith in the ideals of justice, equality and democracy” laid the foundation of the Republic.
The Governor also acknowledged the contributions of security forces, police personnel and all those who work tirelessly to maintain peace and security. He also expressed gratitude to doctors, nurses, teachers, civil servants and “countless unsung heroes who serve society with commitment and sincerity.”
Underlining that the nation’s diversity was its democratic strength, Yadav said, “The strength of our democracy lies in our diversity and our progress depends upon our unity,” and called for fostering “a spirit of understanding, tolerance and cooperation, recognising that we are all partners in the shared task of nation-building.”
He urged the citizens to “create opportunities for our youth, empower our women, protect our environment, strengthen our institutions and uphold the rule of law,” so that the benefits of development “reach every village, every family and every citizen.”
The Governor concluded his address stating that the story of India is a story of hope, resilience and collective endeavour. It is a story that continues to unfold with each generation. “As inheritors of the sacrifices of our freedom fighters, we must carry forward their legacy with dedication and integrity.”
“May the spirit of patriotism inspire us to serve our State and our nation with renewed commitment,” the Governor said, ending his address with “Jai Hind!”
