The second day of the Moatsu Festival 2025 (Mini Hornbill) was celebrated with a civic reception in honour of the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on 2nd May 2025.  

Speaking during the Festival, Dr. Neiphiu Rio thanked the Ao community for pioneering Education, Gospel, and many other aspects of Naga society. He appreciated the Ao community for being the torchbearers and stressed that many people look up to them and hope that they will continue to carry forward the legacy.

Speaking about the richness of Naga culture, customs and traditions, he mentioned that despite being referred to as savages and naked during the British rule, they did not interfere with the Naga way of life. Hence, some historical steps like the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873 and the provisions of the Inner Line Regulations were put in place, and the foreigners did not interfere with the rural administrative system of the Nagas. He mentioned that even after independence, this legacy continues. In this aspect, he asserted that even the world recognised the Nagas as people.

            Referring to Nagaland customary law, Rio asserted that disputes concerning Naga customs law and procedures have been settled accessibly and affordably through village-level courts up to Dobashi courts. Therefore, he encouraged the Nagas to come forward during this significant festival to reflect on the richness of Naga customs.

            On the Naga political issue, the Chief Minister stated that many divisions, multiple factions and societies, overground and underground, have been a stumbling block in achieving an honourable solution. Therefore, he encouraged the Nagas to be united.

On the significance of the Moatsu Festival, the Chief Minister mentioned that the festival celebrates the end of the sowing season and a blessing for rain and a good harvest.

(DPRO, Mokokchung)