Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday called for the global promotion of the state’s unique identity and heritage, firmly rooted in the special constitutional provisions of Article 371(A). Speaking at a special programme titled “Nagaland’s Global Footprints: Cultural Diplomacy and International Engagements”, the Chief Minister urged citizens, institutions, and youth to embrace international cultural exchanges while preserving traditional values.“Our identity, culture, and traditions are not just to be preserved—they are to be shared with the world. Let us globalise the spirit of Nagaland,” Rio said, emphasising the need to transform the state’s heritage into a globally recognised symbol of pride and resilience.The event was organised to reflect on the outcomes of Rio’s recent visit to Russia and Japan from July 10 to 17, where he was accompanied by a team of Naga artists and officials from the Tourism and Industries departments. Nagaland was one of six Indian states selected by the Ministry of External Affairs to participate in this diplomatic-cultural mission.
In Russia, the Nagaland cultural troupe performed at the prestigious Bharat Utsav Festival of India in Moscow, where their vibrant presentations in the concluding segment of the nine-day festival earned praise from Russian authorities. Certificates of appreciation issued by the Russian Embassy were handed over during the Kohima event, recognising the state’s contributions to international cultural engagement.“Such participation not only boosts cultural pride but also opens the doors to soft diplomacy, international goodwill, and long-term cultural and economic collaborations,” Rio said. He added that these engagements have helped spread awareness of the Naga way of life, fostering respect for the region’s traditions and diversity.In Japan, Rio signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Kochi Prefecture for cooperation in human resource development, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. He shared that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will support the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research by funding 400 hospital beds and providing training and employment opportunities for doctors and nurses from the state.
The CM also spoke emotionally about the inauguration of the Kohima Peace Memorial in partnership with the Japanese government. Calling it a “monument of reconciliation,” Rio said it represents a new chapter in Indo-Japanese ties built on the memories of World War II.Rio strongly reaffirmed the importance of Article 371(A), which provides Nagaland with special constitutional rights over its land, resources, and cultural practices. “No other state in India has this. It is our foundation, our protection. We must use it with wisdom and pride,” he said.
