On December 2, 2023, Advisor of Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, flagged off the WW-II peace rally from Nagaland Adventure & Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) Sovima, Chumoukedima.*

The brainchild of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, this annual rally, organized by NAMSA since 2011, commemorates the Battle of Kohima, aiming to spread the message of peace and unity.

During the flagging off ceremony, Jakhalu expressed her honour and happiness to be part of this long-standing event. She emphasized that the rally's objective is to convey a message of peace and unity, not only among the Naga people but globally. Beyond the Hornbill Festival, she stressed the importance of showcasing Nagaland as a state that promotes peace and unity.

Jakhalu also revealed plans for the event's 25th anniversary next year, anticipating a larger scale. She hopes the rally's powerful message will endure.

The rally commenced with a prayer led by Pastor Zhau Sanchu of Christian Revival Church, Sovima. A total of 15 WW-II jeeps, including vintage jeeps, Rover, and Dodge, participated. The rally will make official stops at Midway Resort, Piphema, and the Commonwealth War Grave, concluding at the WW-II Museum, Heritage Village, Kisama. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio will grace the closing ceremony as a special guest.

(Tovikali, IA, Chumoukedima)