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03/11/2011: "Expedite peace process: Rio, civil society groups request Prez Shakeb Ayaz( PTI)"

Expedite peace process: Rio, civil society groups request Prez Shakeb Ayaz( PTI)

Kohima, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and prominent civil society groups today urged President Pratibha Patil to expedite the peace process saying the unresolved decades-old Naga political issue has brought about alienation among the people.

Addressing a gathering at a public reception for Patil in Kisama bamboo heritage village here, Rio asked the government to make to "make concerted efforts to resolve the Naga political issue as the state and its people have been mired in conflict for too long and many precious lives have been lost".

He said the people of the state are anxiously waiting for a positive outcome of the Naga peace process.

During her two-day visit to the state, Patil interacted with representatives of apex tribal council Naga Hoho, NGOs and civil society groups and unveiled a monolith at the entrance of the main arena of the heritage village.

The Naga Hoho in a memorandum urged the President to see that the ongoing peace process was expedited and appealed to her for unconditional release of Naga political prisoners or detainee arrested during the ceasefire period.

Besides expediting the peace talks, some women NGOs requested her to initiate steps for implementation of 33 per cent reservation of seats for women in municipal and town councils in Nagaland.

In her speech at the public reception, Patil said, "This (northeastern) region stands strategically placed at the doorstep of the nations of South East Asia, and can play a crucial role in the development and effective fructification of our ''Look East Policy''.

"This will provide economic benefits to Nagaland also.
Increased connectivity with the nations to the east of India will open the scope for investment and tourism, including eco-tourism and culture tourism in the northeastern states, a sector which has not really so far performed to its potential," she said.

Rio expressed disappointment over lack of four-lane roads, adequate rail links, or an airport here. He also said that the state does not have a single Central or regional educational institution.

Patil, however, said that since attaining statehood in 1963, Nagaland has made significant progress.

"Even though development started under very challenging circumstances, much has been achieved over the years in different fields."
In the evening, Patil reached Manipur, where she was received at the Imphal airport by Governor Gurbachan Jagat and Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh among others.

She will meet representatives of various social organisations tomorrow morning and lay the foundation stone of some institutions before leaving for New Delhi.
‘Save the likely falling of peace and reconciliation’ morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The members of Nagaland Peace Centre, Kohima expressed concern about the deferment of the proposed highest level summit called by the FNR. “There was a ray of hope and encouragement when the collective leadership of NSCN (IM) landed in homeland for the highest political meet for reconciliation but the other party viz NSCN (K), GPRN (NSCN), FGN and NNC were found to be absent and the most crucial meet called by FNR deferred,” stated a note issued by N. Theyo, chairman NPC Kohima.
The note informed that The Naga Relationship meet was held in Chiang Mai, Thailand from June 1 to June 8, 2009 which resulted in signing of a document ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’ by the NSCN (IM), NSCN (K), GPRN (NSCN), FGN and NNC and the latest by Unification group which promises reconciliation and peace.
Stating that reconciliation is possible, only, when all the parties want peace in their relationship and the most important relationship is the trust, NPC added that without trust, there can not be any reconciliation in the relationship. Another important relationship, NPC said is the unity among national workers and to treat as brothers and sisters, and added that there has to be some sacrifice which will enable them to build up a situation to prove that they are real patriotic Nagas and that they will have to uphold the Covenant of reconciliation. “We urge them to remember that FNR is really sacrificing everything to redeem the hopeless situation likely faced by the national workers,” stated NPC.
The Nagaland Peace Centre, Kohima sincerely and seriously appeal to the ‘real Naga Nationalist’ to save the likely falling of peace and reconciliation and to strengthen all positive political forces to reunite the fractured national workers of Nagaland through FNR.

Patil admires natural beauty, rich culture & heritage of Nagas Chizokho Vero Morungexpress


President of India Pratibha Patil interacting with the public at the reception, which was held in her honour at Kisama Heritage village today, March 10. (DIPR Photo)

Kohima | After paying a two-day visit to Nagaland, President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil expressed her happiness to be in Kohima, ‘the beautiful capital of Nagaland’, adding that the warm, colorful and proud population of the state along with its immense natural beauty has made an everlasting impression on her. Patil visited Nagaland before, however, this is her first visit as President.
Clad in colouful Naga traditional dresses at the public reception programme at Kisama today, she conveyed greetings and good wishes to all the people of Nagaland. “We respect the people of Nagaland and their culture,” Patil said. The President said she was touched by the warm welcome and colorful reception the people of Nagaland have accorded to her.
“On account of its mountains, picturesque landscape, forests and greenery, Nagaland is often referred as the “Switzerland of the East.” The majestic peaks Saramati and Japfu, which has the tallest Rhododendron tree in the world, I am sure will inspire people to scale new heights of progress and achieve new levels of prosperity,” she said.
Patil maintained that already a land where there are festivals for every season, development and growth can further add greatly to the many joyous celebrations. She also asserted that the Hornbill Festival held every year at Kisama, not only showcases the rich traditions of Nagaland, but is also a celebration of the potential for the future.
In the meantime, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said the riot of colours, the festivities and the smiling faces mirror the gaiety and the joy that fills “our hearts on your visit to our land” and hoped that the President will go back fond memories of her visit to Nagaland. Governor Nikhil Kumar was optimistic that the performances of culture and lifestyle of Nagas by various tribes in her honour will provide her an enjoyable insight into our culture and heritage.
Kumar recalled that every time he had privileged to call upon the President, she unfailingly asked him about people of Nagaland and their welfare and expressed her keen desire to see them prosperous, happy and on course to achieving greater well being. “Her visit shows her inherent interest in our state,” Kumar added.

Governor lauds effort to resolve Nagas differences

Our Correspondent
Kisama | March 10
Nagaland State Governor Nikhil Kumar today commended on the efforts of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), State Legislatures, NGOs, Tribal Hohos, church leaders, member of civil society to resolve internal differences and forge a commonality of purpose and efforts to achieve peace.
In his address at a public reception for President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the Governor said Nagaland has had a troubled past and the need of the hour is to use the asset in such a way as to convert the state into a haven of peace which will also help to facilitate all round development stating “for it is through such development that we can achieve progress”, adding that by pursing this aim and with God’s blessing “We” shall overcome all obstacles and deliver the people of Nagaland what is most deserved.
He also pointed out that India was on its way to achieving a growth rate which is universally expected to be the second fastest in the world that it is to be hoped that Nagaland state contributes to it and more importantly it benefits from the major success story where the aim is to usher in permanent peace in Nagaland state.
“The efforts of all of us should be aimed at ensuring of the success of the process to bring about peace and for this, all sections of society have to unitedly work towards it in a practical and realistic manner”, he said.
Overwhelmed by the presence of the President and her spouse, the Governor, said Nagaland is not only one of most beautiful states blessed with abundant natural beauty but is also a state rich in its unique culture and heritage, adding that the heritage is a mixture of the cultures of sixteen major tribes and other small tribes.
The Governor asserted that the selfless hospitality and unflinching attachment root that lies in the Naga village distinguishes the people of Nagaland putting in more that this loyalty of the roots is the basis of the dynamic community structure and democratic processes where everybody is happy and participative. He was even more impressive with the participation of the community in running public institutions witnessing democracy in its truest sense.

President urged to ‘save’ Intangki forest

Dimapur, March 10 (MExN): The intervention of President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil is needed to save Intangki National Park from ‘private property’ mongers, about 2000 families of encroachers and the destruction being caused to the forest, Tenyimi Peoples’ Organization (TPO) stated today. The organization issued a copy of a letter addressed to the Head of State.
Representing Nagaland, Assam and Manipur states, the TPO said, “The sensitive, strategically located, ecosystem protected by Nature for millions of years, is under serious threat of rapid destruction.” Intangki National Park is 22, 202 Hectares in size (200 sq kms), situated in Peren district of Nagaland.
The TPO explained – “The sensitive, strategically located, ecosystem protected by nature for millions of years, is under serious threat of rapid destruction. Over 2000 family of encroachers have over the years illegally taken possession of extensive tracts of virgin forestland, sold off the timber trees and started to cultivate them. The arguments and excuses employed by them to justify their blanket violations of the provisions of the Nagaland Forest Act of 1968, and other laws related to protection of forests have no legal basis whatsoever.”
The TPO stated that human diversity and biodiversity are two extraordinary assets of northeast India “but they are often insufficiently recognized.” The impact from the accelerating changes taking place within and outside the region is turning the biodiversity assets into extremely difficult challenges, ‘which are increasingly beyond our control.’
The organization said the forest falls within the jurisdiction of “one of our constituent tribes.” The areas need the President’s urgent attention and consideration “for appropriate instruction to the concerned authorities in your Government.”
The TPO also broached the issue from the angle of “Climate Change.” ‘Nagas too have understood the grim implications of Climate Change; they have also grasped the imperative need globally to stop the destruction of the green cover of the planet, and to increase it at all costs. That is where we too have a small part to play.’
The organization says that the ‘privileged responsibilities’ is on the Nagas to rally to ensure that the integrity of the eco-system nurtured within the forest is preserved without encroachment of any kind being allowed to degrade it further.
“We earnestly request your understanding of our determined attempt being made and your intervention so that the National Park may be saved before it is too late. We are clear, a national property such as this park becoming the private properties of individuals is out of the question,” the TPO said.
Nagalim: Peace is a Common Desire

The call for peace, unity and brotherhood was recently made by Health Minister of Nagaland Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, urging people maintain positive outlook in the society.
Below is an article published by the Morung Express:
Minister for Health & Family Welfare, government of Nagaland Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu yesterday [date] asserted that population is an asset of the society. Peace and unity is the common desire of the Naga society and the responsibility of achieving the common desires lies with the common people of the society, Nienu said and urged the people to maintain brotherhood among the different sections of people.
The Health Minister was addressing the 2011 Kuzhami Welfare Organization (KWO) Phek general session held on March 8 at Phek Town Hall. Nienu encouraged the people gathered to maintain positive outlook in the society as in a united society there would be no misunderstandings.
As part of his individual contribution to the Kuzhami bothers, the Minister donated two lakh towards the KWO fund and fifty thousands for the day feast. Mikha Lomi, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Phek and Wetsope Krome, Superintendent of Police (SP) Phek were among others who exhort the day function.
Earlier, the function was chaired by KWO president Neilhite Akami, invocation by Kewezolo Mero, Pastor, Nepali Baptist Church, Phek Town, general secretary report was read by Teisovikuolie Therieh, indigenous tune was presented by Wehicho and friends, vote of thanks was proposed by Tsulhi Khape and closing prayer was pronounced by Kevichusa Koza, pastor, CRC, Phek followed by mass feast.
Zhimomi for more perks, not AFSPAs morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): According to Rajya Sabha Member Khekiho Zhimomi special Category State Nagaland has ‘all-round facilities’ assured by the category. Interestingly, he remarked to the Parliament on March 8, India has given Nagaland the “privilege” of the subcontinent’s ignominious black law, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1985 but no other facilities in other areas for the state.
Under the draconian law – the MP told the Parliament during the debate of the Railway Budget – even a lowly Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the rank of a sergeant can shoot a person and the court of law cannot challenge it. “But special privileges and facilities on all other fronts have been withdrawn one after another,” the MP quipped.
Making these statements the MP expressed gratefulness that the railway budget “acknowledged” states such as Nagaland. “This is the first time in the history of the great Indian railways family that Nagaland has found a place,” Zhimomi remarked.
Zhimomi even quipped to the Parliament: “our demand is very limited. We are a very grateful people; we are really grateful that this time in the railway budget a new line survey from Dimapur to Tizit has been included. Its only 250 kms.”
The MP reminded the Parliament of the assurance given by former railway Minister Laloo Prasad to provide a railhead to all the state capitals, including that of Nagaland. “We have been waiting for the fulfillment of this commitment very eagerly. This time, a more aggressive step may please be taken so that it materializes,” the former Nagaland Minister for Industries stated.
Another point of concern the MP raised in the Parliament was the reservation of seats for Dimapur in the Rajdhani Express. Dimapur station serves not only Nagaland but Manipur state as well, catering to a large population of travelers.
The MP makes this request to the Centre – “However, the present quota for Dimapur station is insufficient for meeting the growing demands of the people of the two states namely Nagaland and Manipur. I therefore request the honorable minister to increase the quota of seats for Dimapur railway station. Similarly, the Rajdhani Express halts only for five minutes at the Dimapur railway station; the halt may please be extended up to twenty minutes.”
Nagaland producing 200 tonnes of honey annually morungexpress
P. Longon calls for further boosting of apiculture in the state
DIMAPUR, (MExN): A two-day state level seminar on ‘awareness, motivational and technology transfer for development of beekeeping in Nagaland’ took off on Wednesday, March 9 at the NE Agri Expo site, 4th Mile, Dimapur. The seminar is organised by the Nagaland Bee Keeping & Honey Mission and sponsored by the National Bee Board (NBB). Dr. BL Saraswat, executive director of the NBB is one of the resource persons at the workshop which has in attendance beekeepers from around the state.
Minister for Soil & Water Conservation and Land Resources P. Longon addressed the inaugural session as the chief guest. “This is an excellent opportunity for farmers and beekeepers to gain valuable knowledge from the expert resource persons who will be sharing their technical knowhow and expertise,” said the chief guest while expressing optimism that following the seminar the participants will go back motivated and more equipped to further strengthen the beekeeping industry in the state.
The state is blessed with the ideal agro-climatic condition for beekeeping, while traditionally it has been an age-old activity among the Nagas, he said. Realising its immense potential the state government had launched the Nagaland Beekeeping & Honey Mission in October 2007. The objective was not only to harness its rich potential but also to create a road map for the development of beekeeping in the state, Longon recalled, nevertheless commenting that it is still at a nascent stage.
The Mission so far has been able to create awareness on the importance of beekeeping in the state while beekeeping as an economic activity is gradually gaining momentum, he said. As a result “production of honey in the state has gone upto 200 metric tones per annum”, he informed, besides beekeeping and its related activities is providing employment opportunities to many. The Mission further endeavours to promote: ‘Nagaland Honey’ as the preferred brand name for honey produced in the state.
On the other advantages of beekeeping or apiculture, he said that integrating the activity with agricultural, horticultural, forestry, rural development and community based projects will boost the farming community.
“Honey bees play an important role in crop pollination.” With 80 percent of the state population engaged in farming, apiculture when promoted will further enhance the agricultural productivity manifold, he asserted.
“I am very sure such a seminar will do the needful in motivating and providing the technology transfer to the farmers of the state, at the same time it will pave the way for more coordination amongst the various departments.” Longon urged the NBB for their patronage and guidance in this regard.
Encouraging the people who have taken up apiculture in the state, he urged them to be dedicated and sincere in their chosen activity while at the same time ardently collaborate with the implementing agency as “partners and as stakeholders…” He expressed hope that the state’s beekeepers will take apiculture to a larger commercial level and become successful entrepreneurs “for which the state can be proud of.”
He further called upon the NBHM to continue doing the good work they have initiated with unflinching dedication backed by vibrant team spirit.
‘Beekeeping a goldmine’: NBB executive director
DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): Executive director of the National Bee Board (NBB), Dr. BL Saraswat termed beekeeping as a ‘goldmine’. This was stated during a presentation on the topic: ‘Status of Beekeeping and Honey Enterprise in India: The Challenges Ahead’ by Dr. Saraswat at the first technical session of the two-day state level seminar on ‘awareness, motivational and technology transfer for development of beekeeping in Nagaland’ being held at the NE Agri Expo Site, 4th Mile, Dimapur.
With an average annual production of 65, 000 tonnes of honey, apiculture today is providing employment to 1.5 lakh people in the country, said Dr. Saraswat. The export value of honey produced in India is now Rs. 250 crore. Honey production is projected to increase to 10 million tonnes per annum in the coming years while employing a further 215 lakh people and the export value is estimated at Rs. 800, 000 million. Taking the consideration its economic potential, Dr. Saraswat called for adopting scientific method in apiculture. As of now, beekeeping in India is centred only on traditional methods while he admitting that scientific beekeeping is still absent in India. “If one takes up scientific method the remuneration will be much higher.”
Another important reason why beekeeping is receiving so much thrust is that it is directly related to agriculture and crop production, he said, for the simple reason being bees help in pollination of crops. Hence, beekeeping is also treated as the ‘fifth input’ for overall development of agriculture in a sustainable manner. The four main inputs required in agriculture are land, labour, capital and management. Apiculture as the ‘fifth input’ regulates the efficacy of the other four inputs, he added.
Further substantiating this, he quoted Albert Einstein: “If the bee disappears from the surface of the earth, man would have no more than four years to live. No more bees, no more pollination … no more men!” Beekeeping today is constrained by deforestation, wildfires, water and air pollution, mono-cropping culture and importantly indiscriminate use of insecticides, pesticides, weedicides and other chemicals used in agriculture, Dr. Saraswat said.
This type of campaigns and awareness meet are required, he said on the objective of the seminar. The objectives of capacity building programmes are to create awareness among farmers as well as the officers and employees of the related government departments, to encourage and adopt scientific beekeeping method and management on use of pesticides in various crops to protect honeybees. And also creating awareness on the role bees play in increasing crop yield.
There is huge potential in beekeeping, he reminded while estimating that there is a requirement of 200 million bee colonies to provide pollination to India’s 12 major crops. Mission Director of the NBHM Mhathung Yanthan declared that the USP (Unique Selling Point) of the honey produced here is its organic nature, thereby giving it a higher trade value. He added that nine villages have already been identified in the state as organic honey producers.