Kohima, August 16 (MExN): The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) on Saturday expressed gratitude to schools and educational institutions, its federating units and subordinate bodies, programme participants, tribal bodies, churches, civil society organisations, well-wishers, media fraternity and citizens for their support and participation in the successful commemoration of the 80th Naga Independence Day.
The commemoration was held on August 14 at the Naga Solidarity Park in Kohima.
In a note of appreciation, the NSF particularly thanked educational institutions that facilitated the participation of students in the programme, saying their involvement provided the younger generation an opportunity to learn and reflect on Naga history, identity, heritage and collective aspirations.
The Federation said the participation also helped foster a sense of unity, responsibility and pride in the shared Naga identity.
The NSF also placed on record its appreciation to its federating units and subordinate bodies for their dedicated efforts, mobilisation and active participation in the event.
It said the support and solidarity extended by tribal bodies, civil society organisations, churches, well-wishers and concerned citizens further strengthened the spirit of collective responsibility and unity.
The Federation also appreciated federating units and subordinate bodies, schools and educational institutions, tribal bodies, churches and citizens who responded positively to its public appeal concerning the Government of India's directive on the playing or singing of the revised Vande Mataram during official functions and in educational institutions.
The NSF said those who supported its appeal by abstaining from India's Independence Day programmes in 2026 demonstrated their commitment to freedom of conscience, dignity, religious sensitivity and respect for diverse beliefs.
The Federation reiterated that its position was not against any community, religion or nation, but was based on the principle that every individual's conscience and belief should be respected.
The NSF called upon all Nagas to continue standing together in peace, unity and solidarity to safeguard their dignity, identity, beliefs and collective conscience.
"Let us continue to stand together at all times as One People, One Nation, One Destiny," the Federation said.
