The 73rd Phom Day (Peace Day), marking the end of the headhunting era in the Phom area and the beginning of Peace and Harmony among Phom, was celebrated with the theme "Peace within, Peace beyond" on June 6th 2025, at the public ground in Longleng. MLA B. Bangtick Phom was the special guest, and Deputy Commissioner Longleng W. Manpai Phom NCS was the guest of honour.
The Special guest unfurled the Phom Day flag, which was followed by the singing of the Phom Day Anthem. He delivered the Phom Day message and took salute from the parade contingents comprised of the Band party of 12th IR Chongtok, Schools and Higher Secondary Schools under Longleng town, Scouts and Guides, and Yingli College Longleng.
The Special Guest, in his address, greeted the Phom people on the auspicious occasion of the 73rd Phom Peace Day celebration at Longleng, Nagaland. He remarked that the current generation is truly fortunate to enjoy the fruits of peace, nurtured by the visionary leadership of the past. Their courageous and selfless efforts laid the foundation for harmony in our society. It is because of their foresight that we can celebrate this as Phom Peace Day, he added.
He emphasised that the day is not just a celebration but a reminder of the responsibility we carry to uphold and nurture peace. He reminded everyone that Phom people have long been recognised as peace-loving. The world sees them as peacekeepers, but it is equally important that they also be seen as peace practitioners, those who live by and actively promote peace. He urged the people to reflect on whether they are truly upholding the legacy of peace established by past leaders, or merely acting as passive observers of their sacrifices.
Reflecting on history, he recalled a time when headhunting, hatred, and revenge plagued communities. During this turbulent period, three courageous and visionary leaders — Lt. Hamnyei (Head Dobashi), Lt. Yongtau (2nd Dobashi), and Lt. Anyak — along with village elders, took a bold stand for peace over violence, despite great personal risk. Their message was resolute: violence offers no lasting gain, while peace secures a future for all. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for what is now commemorated as Phom Day.
As the 73rd Phom Day was observed, concerns were raised over ongoing divisions within the community. Despite decades of peace, issues such as misunderstandings, internal conflicts, and disunity continue to persist. Land disputes, boundary disagreements, and ownership conflicts were highlighted as major obstacles to progress. MLA Phom emphasised that the celebration would hold little significance unless the community embraces forgiveness, reconciliation, and a genuine effort to resolve these lingering issues. He made a call for individuals to take the first step—whether by returning what is not rightfully theirs or by extending forgiveness.
As the Guest of Honour, Deputy Commissioner Longleng, W. Manpai Phom NCS, in his address, stressed progressive peacekeeping and extended his heartfelt greetings on the joyous occasion. He reflected on the courage and wisdom of these pioneers, reminding the gathering that progress must continue in all areas of life. He further emphasised the need to move forward in step with the evolving demands of a rapidly changing world.
As a society, Manpai Phom urged the people to commit to encouraging development that is sustainable and inclusive and to think beyond individual gain and work for the good of the whole community. In the field of education, he urged the people to continue to support and recognise students who excel and to stand against human violence in all forms and actively support women’s empowerment. If we truly embrace these values, peace will follow.
He ended his address by congratulating the organising team for successfully putting together such a meaningful and well-coordinated program on this important day.
Additional Superintendent of Police Longleng, H. Hiatwa Irulu NPS, in his solitary message, said that in a world often divided by conflicts, inequality, and misunderstanding, Phom people led by the Phom People Council are appreciated for their commitment to stand together in solidarity for peace. Peace is not just the absence of violence, but it fosters empathy, cooperation, and understanding. He stressed the importance of uniting in the commitment to promote peace and harmony, and urged acknowledging the courage and resilience of those who have worked tirelessly to resolve conflicts between the Phom Community in Phom land.
Irulu highlighted the importance of creating a world where conflicts are resolved through peaceful means and working towards a brighter future for the sake of future generations.
A message on the significance of Phom Day was delivered by the President, PPC, Y.B. Angam Phom and a message addressing the occasion was given by Phom Day Commission convenor, Nuklu Phom.
Phom Students Conference presented the N.I. Jamir and Phom Day awards in various fields to the following individuals: S.P. Longleng, Yanger Jamir, Hennyukonlen Phom, B. Bonglen Phom, T. Alen Nyaim, Band Bu-oo-Li, M. Nganshung, Wanyau Phom, Jatli H. Mongshet, L. Chuchong Noklang, Ailung P. Phom and Lengthai E. Phom.
A folk melody, A Call for Peace, was presented by Bhütaü Phom. Peace folk fusion was also presented by the Cross Road Ministry, and a play was performed by Vision Vale School, Longleng.
Affirmation of the Phom Day Pledge and a prayer of blessings were pronounced by Associate Pastor LTBC, Rev. H. Mongngoi. Earlier invocation was pronounced by Pastor Oukshok Baptist Church Rev. Chingkon, while the welcome address was delivered by President Phomla Hoichem, A. Ainyu Phom. The programme was compered by M. Lithei and Hamlog Phom.
The day-long programme included cultural dance by Yachem cultural troops (Male) and cultural troops Yongnyah circle (Female), and peace-promoting games including soccer ( Men PPC Executive Vs Villages Union President, DC 11 Vs SP 11 and Officers Club Vs 12 IR Chongtok) and women's Volleyball (Phomla Hoichem Vs 11 wards Nyudhu, Women Officer's Vs Laa Union President).
(Manjong, IA Longleng)
