Nagaland today joined the nation in celebrating the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and a renewed call for peace, unity and development. The state-level celebration was held at the Nagaland Secretariat Plaza, Kohima, where Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio hoisted the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute from 14 parade contingents.  For the first time, Vande Mataram was rendered during the state-level Independence Day celebration, adding to the patriotic spirit of the occasion.

 

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Rio extended greetings to the people and paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices and perseverance secured the country’s freedom.  He said India has made significant progress towards becoming a democratic, strong, prosperous and progressive nation, and called for collective efforts to build a more developed, self-reliant and prosperous Nagaland.

 

Expressing concern over the recent devastating monsoon, landslides and flash floods, particularly in Mon district, Mr Rio conveyed condolences to the affected families. He said an Inter-Ministerial Central Team from the Ministry of Home Affairs had assessed the damages to facilitate recovery and rehabilitation assistance.

 

Similar celebrations were held across districts and subdivisions with Deputy Chief Ministers, Ministers, Advisors, respective ADCs and SDOs hoisted National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute.