Governor, Nagaland & Assam, Prof. Jagdish Mukhi stated that it is imperative for the country to develop in soft power such as sports and music, in which Nagaland has a huge potential to be a leader in this front. He stated this during the inauguration of exhibition of portraits of former Chief Ministers of Nagaland at RCEMPA, Jotsoma on 17th November 2021.

Governor Mukhi stated that the exhibition takes one through the different eras of the Nagas under the leadership of different Chief Ministers – the struggle, challenges and achievements that the people have gone through, and added that it is also a great moment to retrospect and make necessary improvements.

Mukhi while stating that the youth were amongst the best in the country and the world, added that the Government’s endeavour would be to help create an ecosystem of optimum opportunities for them in the State so that they not only help overcome the development differentials with the most advanced states of the country, but outdo them as well.

The exhibition consists of 11 Chief Ministers of Nagaland who served the State from its inception, viz. P. Shilu Ao, T. N. Angami, Dr. Hokishe Sema, Vizol, J. B. Jasokie, Dr. S. C. Jamir, K. L. Chishi, Vamuzo, T. R. Zeliang, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu and Neiphiu Rio. The portraits have been painted by artists from the State and will be kept for viewing by the public at RCEMPA, Jotsoma till the end of November 2021 after which it will be displayed and housed at the State Banquet Hall, Kohima.

Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio speaking at the inauguration said that Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA) was conceptualized to promote musicians and artists of the State. With Nagas gifted with musical and artistic abilities he stated that training is needed. With Mizoram and TaFMA partnering to promote the talents of youth from the two states, he hoped that through this they will learn from each other.

Chairman, Youth Commission, Government of Mizoram, Dr. Vanlaltanpuia was also present during the launch of the exhibition. He stated that the two states recognize the immense talent present in their youths, and for which providing training is important in order to convert all these skills into profession. He said that Mizoram Youth Commission together with TaFMA will promote the talents of youth in the two states in the field of music and arts.

            A musical ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’ was also performed in honour of the Governor, Prof. Jagdish Mukhi during the event.

                                                                                                (Nouneseno, IA)