Zomi Nam Ni rocks Delhi
Source: The Sangai Express / Ninglun Hanghal

New Delhi, February 20 2013: Cultural extravaganza and performances of traditional songs and dances marked the 65th Zomi Nam Ni (Zomi National Day) celebration here in New Delhi today.

A strong contingent of Tribe leaders, MLAs and MDCs from Churachandpur district including renowned Zomi Artists graced the auspicious occasion.

Oscar Fernandez, MP and Chairman Parliamentary Standing Committee and HS Brahman, Election Commissioner who were part of the celebration emphasized upon protection of rich culture, tradition for the Zomis as proud Indians.

President of the Paite Tribe Council, Vaiphei People' Council, Teddim-Chin Union, Simte Tribe Council, United Zou Organization, Mate Tribe Council, Gangte Tribe Council, and other leaders were present, including twelve District Council members and State legislative member, Vungzagin Valte, Manga Vaiphei and Ginsuanhau.

Zomi Nam Ni at Delhi

In his keynote address, LB Sona, Chairman of the Zomi Council, the executive body of the Zomi Federation called for a durable peace, a political space for the next generation.

Recalling the long journey of the Zomis across India and the border, functional president Phungzathang Tonsing, Minister of Health & FW/GAD / CADA encouraged and motivated the youth while also emphasising on the need for communal harmony.

He said that an occasion such as this is the beginning of unity and progress.

Chairman of ADC, Churachandpur, Langkhanpau Guite put forth the need to upgrade ADCs in Manipur at par with the ADCs in other North Eastern States .

"The talks between Government and SoO signatory groups have to be sped up," said Guite.

Ahead of the Zomi Nam Ni, a conclave of Zomi intellectuals from Manipur and Delhi converged at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Zomi thinkers, leaders of traditional civil bodies, political leaders, students had an indepth deliberations on challenges faced by the Zo people as a political minority, as victims of the post colonial rule, across South East Asia.

Self rule and Autonomous administrations of their own inherited ancestral lands echoed the conclave.