As part of the year-long celebration commemorating 90 years of radio broadcasting in India, Akashvani, Kohima in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) and the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), hosted ‘Voice of the Youth’ folk song competition at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, on October 28th 2025.
In her welcome address, Ella Kayina, Head of Programme said that the 90th anniversary of Akashvani highlights the rich legacy the institution has preserved over the years. She informed that Akashvani Kohima has been organising a series of activities to mark the milestone, including essay competitions for government school students in both Hindi and English, and a Hindi singing competition. “This folk song competition, which we are hosting today, is also a part of the commemoration,” she said, adding that related events will continue till June 2026.
Kayina further highlighted the significant contribution of Akashvani Kohima at both the regional and national levels. “We broadcast 15 tribal dialect programmes, each lasting 30 minutes, exclusively on the primary channel. These dialect programmes are the backbone of our station,” she said, noting that representatives from these 15 programmes were among the audience, along with officials and guests.
She remarked that the folk song competition serves as a tribute to the folk artists whose work has helped preserve the region’s cultural heritage. “Many of them may have passed away, but their legacy remains cherished forever in our hearts. Their efforts in preserving our culture have kept it alive today and have greatly shaped Akashvani Kohima into what it is,” she added.
Encouraging the participants ahead of the competition, Kayina said that the event would be a journey of learning and self-discovery for many. She expressed confidence that through their participation, each group would gain something valuable — a new skill, a new song, and a deeper appreciation of their cultural heritage.
In his vote of thanks, Programme Executive, Khriesaniesa Rusta, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organisations whose collective efforts contributed to the success of the evening’s folk song competition. Speaking on behalf of the Head of Office, Head of Programme, and the entire staff of Akashvani Kohima, Rusta acknowledged the relentless and tireless work of everyone involved from the very first day of preparation to the culmination of the event. He also extended special appreciation to the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) for sponsoring the prize money and conveyed gratitude to the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) for their support.
The Voice of the Youth Folk Song Competition featured captivating performances by 15 tribes of Nagaland each showcasing their distinct musical traditions and rich cultural heritage. The event celebrated the artistic diversity of the State while emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous folk traditions for future generations.
Khiamniungan tribe emerged as the winner, securing the first prize of ₹50,000, followed by the Konyak tribe, which bagged the second prize of ₹40,000, and the Sangtam tribe, which received the third prize of ₹30,000. Khiamniungan and Zeliang tribes were awarded ₹20,000 each for best traditional attire in the special category, while consolation prizes of ₹10,000 were presented to the Chang, Yimkhiung, Kuki, and Angami tribes.
(Kazihito T Kibami, IA)
