17 Sep : The declaration programme of the Indigenous Food and Exhibition Stall (a 3 day event) organized by the Eastern Nagaland Women Organization (ENWO) got underway today the 17th September 2008 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium (Multi Purpose Hall) Kohima.
State Information Commissioner Nagaland, Rev. Dr. Pongsing who graced the programme as the chief guest lauded the ENWO for organizing such a big event though the organization came into being recently. ‘This is a landmark in the history of your organization, and this shows your quality of leadership and the strength in your organization’, he said. Encouraging them to have a vision and mission he said, ‘If we have a clear vision and mission the sense of direction for all activities will be clear and people will recognize that ENWO exists for such vision’, he mentioned.
Stressing on co-operation and unity amongst the members as extremely vital to sustain the organization, Dr. Pongsing said that internal unity at the grass-root level should be strengthened. Advising the gathering to refrain from using the word ‘backward’, he said that a positive image about the community must be developed. ‘We are no longer backward from mental capacity point of view so take the initiative and gain respect and recognition from other communities as well as the government’, he added. Talking on ‘women empowerment’, the chief guest felt that women should begin to play a role and become equal partners with men. Stating that ENWO has big space to grow and play a bigger role, he appealed to the members to use their brains and potentials and asked them to continue to fly high.
Touching on the issue of Culture and Identity, Rev. Pongsing said that we have oppressive elements in our culture but expressed optimism that there is scope to make appropriate culture. ‘Throw away the irrelevant culture and make relevant changes’, he said, and added that civilization and culture not static but a continuous process. Pointing out that women have the capacity to keep in tune with the changing situation, he asked them to move forward with strong determination and perseverance. ‘Let the people recognize the capacity and power you have’, he concluded.
Earlier the chief guest unfurled the ENWO flag. Member, Nagaland Women Commission, S.P. Ellen delivered the welcome address while Treasurer NBCC, Rev. Lima said the invocation. Akheda Sangtamlarn Thsingmijang presented a special number and enthralled the gathering. Later the chief guest along with other dignitaries visited the stalls put up by the Chang, Phom, Konyak Yimchunger and Sangtam tribes. Principal Secretary, P&AR, C.J. Ponraj, Chairperson, Nagaland Women Commission, Sano Vamuzo, Member NWC, Abeni TCK and other dignitaries attended the function. The 3 day event will culminate on 19th September 2008 where Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio will grace the valedictory programme as the chief guest.