The second day of the Tsungkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival held at Shamator on 16th January 2026, was graced by the Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio; Deputy Chief Minister, Y. Patton; Minister for Forest & Environment, C. L. John; MLA & Advisor HG&CD and F&ES, S. Kiusumew; Advisor for YRS, S. Keoshu Yimchunger; President of Tangkhul Naga Long, Sword Vashum; President of Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation, A. Chingmak Chang, along with other dignitaries and officials.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio thanked God for the pleasant weather and extended his greetings and blessings to all Yimkhiung citizens during the Tsungkamnyo festival. He wished the people a bountiful harvest in 2026 and stated that Tsungkamnyo symbolizes happiness and friendship—not only within families but also by welcoming tribes beyond borders, fostering peace and unity.
Dr. Rio noted that the Mini Hornbill Festival has evolved from a roadshow concept, and today the Hornbill Festival is not only a state festival but is widely recognized at the national level. He highlighted that in the previous edition, six countries participated internationally. He also recalled that the British had witnessed the strong governance and independent spirit of the Nagas, which led to the recognition of the Nagas as a unique people and the introduction of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873 to protect Naga traditions and customs.
He further shared that during the last Hornbill Festival, some international participants faced visa restrictions due to national policies. The Government of Nagaland, through a cabinet meeting, had written to the Centre to seek relaxation of such restrictions. Referring to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Rio spoke about the vision of “Viksit Bharat”, aiming to make India a developed nation by 2047, and urged everyone to focus on all-round development.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the landmark friendship forged between the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), calling it a true reflection of the Government of Nagaland’s motto, “Unity”. He expressed hope that this friendship would serve as a bridge toward unity among all Nagas making Naga-inhabited areas the most peaceful through brotherhood and mutual respect.
Sword Vashum, President of TNL, thanked the Yimkhiung Tribal Council for the invitation and in the true Christian spirit, soughed forgiveness for the past misunderstandings. He assured stronger ties between the two communities, emphasizing their shared history and brotherhood since time immemorial. He also invited the YTC to participate in the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival on 15th February.
S. Throngso, President of YTC, expressed gratitude to the Tangkhul delegation led by Sword Vashum for attending and making the festival more meaningful. He acknowledged the invitation to the Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival, accepted the apologies extended by TNL and likewise apologized for any past wrongdoings. He emphasized burying the past and working together for unity and peace in the future. The declaration of mutual respect and understanding between the two communities was officially read out by the YTC President.
A. Chingmak Chang, President of ENPO, applauded the historic friendship between the Tangkhul and Yimkhiung communities, stating that such unity strengthens ties with the people of Eastern Nagaland as a whole. He also commended the YTC for organizing the grand event.
S. Kiusumew, Advisor spoke on the significance of Tsungkamnyo, describing it as a festival rooted in year-long preparation by forefathers. He urged the present generation living in an era of peace and development, to act responsibly and work toward a better future.
The program concluded with vibrant cultural performances by the Tangkhul and Yimkhiung cultural troupes, showcasing their rich traditions and heritage.
(L. Shahoto Yimchinger, IA. Shamator)
