Imphal, February 21: Under the theme of 'Working towards a common nomenclature and culture', the 60th District Level Zomi-Nam-Ni festival was celebrated with great fanfare at Sugnu Zokhawpi yesterday.

Presentation of cultural dances and music and felicitation of the chiefs of the various tribal villages of Chandel district were the main highlights of the celebration.

Addressing the gathering as chief guest of the function, MLA of Chandel A/C Thangkholun Haokip pointed out that the Kuki, Mizo, Zomi and Chin groups of people are collectively known as Chin by the Burmese while in Mizoram, they are either known as Zo or Mizo.

So, since these groups of people are in fact just one group, it is desirable that they live in peace and harmony.

Describing Chandel district as a home for different groups of people including Meiteis, Kukis, Nagas, etc, the MLA added that all these people should not harbour any animosity and live together in the true spirit of brotherhood and amity.

While observing that chiefs of the Chin, Kuki, Zo, Zomi and Mizo people are numerous, the MLA said even for a small village there is unfailingly one chief.

But it would be better to ensure that at least 30 households are there before formation of a new village.

Referring to the upcoming election of the District Council, the MLA appealed to all the people to ensure that the election is held in a free and fair manner.

He also exhorted the people to join hands with the chairmen and the vice-chairmen who would be elected and work for development of the district.

Pointing out that there are around 60 villages under the Khengjoi block of the district and that the people there are suffering and have not face any festivities for the last many years, the MLA urged the representatives who would be elected from the District Council election to help the people of this block and give top priority in improving their living condition.

The MLA also distributed traditional red shawls to the village chiefs who came from different parts of the district to take part in the celebration.

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