Nagaland Marks Statehood Day: History and Significance
Agartala/Kohima, Dec 1 : Leaders across the political spectrum united on Monday to extend their warm greetings to the people of Nagaland on the occasion of the state’s Foundation Day.
As the state celebrates its distinct identity, the tributes highlighted Nagaland’s glorious culture, rich biodiversity, and its enduring journey toward peace and progress.
The celebrations coincide with the commencement of the iconic ten-day Hornbill Festival, which begins annually on December 1 and brings together major Naga tribes to showcase their living traditions through folklore, music, crafts, and cuisine.
The Festival has grown into one of India’s most iconic cultural event and a prominent tourism magnet, symbolising the unity of Nagaland’s tribes.
The show also highlights the progress of the State over the decades in education, rural development and entrepreneurship, while also engaging in long-running political dialogues aimed at lasting peace.
Leaders Extend Greetings
Prominent national and regional leaders took to social media to honour the state’s contributions to the Indian Union.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the character of the Naga people, emphasizing their values of service and bravery.
“Greetings to the people of Nagaland on the occasion of their Statehood Day. The glorious Naga culture, rooted in service, courage and compassion, is widely admired.
The people of Nagaland have distinguished themselves across many fields. May the state keep moving ahead with prosperity and progress in the years ahead.”
As Nagaland Marks Statehood Day, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi focused on the environmental and cultural richness of the state, noting its contribution to the nation’s diversity.
Highlighting regional solidarity, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the shared future of the Northeast.
“A land of vibrant cultures, proud traditions & enduring spirit, Nagaland inspires with its journey of harmony & progress. May the state reach new heights of peace, development & prosperity in the year ahead.”
Hosting the celebrations, State’s CM Neiphiu Rio paid tribute to the state’s founding fathers.
“We honour our leaders who safeguarded our rights & identity, & the visionaries who shaped our future. Let us work together for a prosperous, inclusive, & sustainable Nagaland, reaffirming our commitment to its progress & well-being.”
A Historic Journey to Statehood
Nagaland became the 16th state of the Indian Union on December 1, 1963. The state’s formation was the culmination of a strong nationalist movement and years of political negotiations.
- Post-1947: Initially part of Assam, the region saw a strong movement demanding the political union of Naga tribes.
- 1957: The Naga Hills region of Assam and the Tuensang frontier division were merged into a single administrative unit under the central government.
- 1960: A historic agreement was signed between the Government of India and the Naga People’s Convention (NPC).
- 1962-1963: The State of Nagaland Act, 1962 was passed by Parliament. On December 1, 1963, Nagaland achieved full statehood with Kohima as its capital and special constitutional safeguards under Article 371(A).
Today, the state’s Foundation Day serves as a moment of reflection on its resilience and a reaffirmation of hopes for stability, as the region continues to make strides in education, rural development, and entrepreneurship. (With inputs from IANS)
