The Second day of Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill festival 2026 was held on 20th January 2026 at Nokhu, Noklak district with Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio as Chief Guest.
The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, in his speech said that the State Government is promoting tribal festivals in order to preserve the rich culture and traditions of the Nagas, as festivals foster friendship and unity among the people. He said that the forefathers, with their wisdom initiated and protected Naga culture and traditions, passing them down from generation to generation.
Dr. Rio mentioned that with the advent of the British in India, they too recognized the culture and traditions of the Nagas and enacted the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873, a British-era regulation aimed at protecting indigenous tribes of the North-Eastern region. He said that the Act helped to preserve Naga culture and traditions through the enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.
In regards to the ENPO demand, Dr. Rio stated that the State Government has already submitted its recommendation to the Central Government for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) in Eastern Nagaland.
Dr. Rio also elaborated on the role of the Pan Naga Hoho in uniting Naga people across different regions and states, and in safeguarding their shared identity and welfare.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for peace and unity among the people and urged elected representatives, civil society organizations, and church leaders to work together in unity for the progress of society.
Meanwhile, Rio inaugurated the handicrafts stall set up by Noklak District Handloom & Handicrafts council, various department stalls and Self-help Groups under the district. He also shot the first bow and arrow set up by Khiamniungan Sports Council.
Tribal Guest, President of the Angami Public Organization (APO), Thejao Vihienuo said that the friendship between Angami and Khiamniungan tribe has been maintained since time immemorial. Vihienuo expressed that the APO believed in the oneness of Nagas and was determined to foster the unity of Nagas. He also remarked that Nagaland statehood became possible since the beginning of Naga National Movement. Calling Naga society a 'wounded society', due to multiple causes in the process of journey, he said the only way to heal is to build trust among each other, and called for peace and unity as pillar to regain the trust that is lost among each tribe.
The APO president in his address expressed hope that the festival is not just a mere celebration but lays a foundation of Friendship which is shared not only between the Angami and Khiamniungan tribe, but to other Naga tribes. Stating that with the coming together of Angami and Khiamniungan tribe, the president urged the two tribes to take responsibility to draw each closer, and appealed to pledge and foster the bond with other Nagas too.
Earlier, the festival greetings was delivered by MLA, Benei M Lamthiu, the festival host of the day. Traditional precaution for the festival & Friendship treaty was proposed by the Head DB of Nokhu, Palu. Welcome address was delivered by the President, Khiamniungan Tribal Council, L. Ngon. Folk fusion was presented by Thsoithen Langtha, while Hoi i-e tsu was performed by Choklangan village. Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio was accompanied by Minister Metsübo Jamir, Minister C. L. John, MLA Achumbemo Kikon, MLA P. Longon and other entourage during the Khaozaosie Hok-Ah cum Mini Hornbill festival 2026.
(K. K. Chim, IA Noklak)
