The Youth Department of Signal Phom Baptist Attoi presenting an act play during the Phom Day celebration commemorating 74 years of peace, organised by the Dimapur Phom Union at Ao Senden Riju, Purana Bazar, on June 6. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | June 6
Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, Government of Nagaland, H Tovihoto Ayemi, on Saturday described the observance of Phom Day as a “classic example” of how a community can come together to create a peaceful environment.
The Phom Day celebration commemorating 74 years of peace, organised by Dimapur Phom Union, was held at Ao Senden Riju, Purana Bazar, under the theme “Towards the Platinum, Peace, Beneficiaries & the Obligations.”
Addressing the gathering as the special guest, Ayemi said peace and patience are two vital qualities that every society must uphold. He urged other tribes and communities across the state to emulate the spirit of unity demonstrated by the Phom people.
Expressing his gratitude for being part of the occasion, Ayemi said he felt privileged to join the community on a profound day of “great historical significance.”
Ayemi said the celebration was not only about remembering the past but also about renewing faith, commitment and friendship among fellow Nagas. He lauded the wisdom and vision of the Phom elders and leaders who came together decades ago to bury hatred and end the practice of headhunting, thereby laying the foundation for lasting peace.
“The Phom community has shown the path and set a classic example of how a community coming together as one can create a peaceful environment,” he said, adding that the message should resonate across Nagaland and beyond.
Reflecting on Naga history, Ayemi noted that the Nagas have a unique identity rooted in their customs, traditions, cultures, languages, colourful attires and folk heritage.
He said Nagaland has undergone significant social, economic and political transformation over the years, while successive governments have consistently pursued the goal of bringing Nagas together in unity and brotherhood.
While acknowledging the challenges facing the society, he stressed the need for greater unity among Nagas despite geographical divisions across Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar.
“We have to unite, keep our brotherhood and maintain our distinct identity,” he said, calling on all tribes to use their unique identities as a force for unity rather than division.
Ayemi further commended the Dimapur Phom Union for organising the august event, describing it as a positive initiative and a milestone set by a peace-loving community.
He expressed hope that such efforts would continue to strengthen peaceful coexistence among communities. “Let this day be a day of renewed commitment, a day of renewed friendship, and let us all strive for peace,” he said.
The programme also witnessed short speeches by Dr Tinojongshi Chang, Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, and GK Rengma, president of Naga Council Dimapur, while the Phom Day message was delivered by former Parliamentary Secretary P Dako Phom.
Guests of Honour A Pongshi Phom, MLA of 50 Longleng A/C, and B Bangtick Phom, MLA and Chairman of DPDB Longleng, also delivered short speeches.
An act play was presented by the Youth Department of Signal Phom Baptist Attoi, while the Youth Department of Phom Baptist Attoi, Dimapur, presented a modern folk fusion. H Hamnyü Phom also recited a poem.
The event was attended by representatives of various Dimapur-based tribal hohos and unions, along with members of the Phom Naga community.
