DIMAPUR, Nov 6: The Tenyimi Union Dimapur (TUD) celebrated its Golden Jubilee with grandeur and unity at the DDSC Stadium, Dimapur. The event was preceded by the unveiling of the Jubilee monolith at the Tenyimi Complex by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, followed by the release of balloons and souvenir by Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Rio congratulated its leaders and members for completing 50 years of brotherhood and preserving the Tenyimi community’s shared heritage, language, and values. Emphasizing that “unity must remain our greatest strength,” Rio said that the Naga people must rise above clannism and tribalism to uphold the spirit of “Nagaism — unity, integrity, and mutual respect.”
Highlighting constitutional safeguards under Article 371(A), Rio reiterated the need to preserve the state’s unique identity while promoting inclusivity. He also clarified that while non-Naga tribes such as Kukis, Kacharis, Garos, and Mikirs are recognized as Scheduled Tribes of Nagaland, they are not considered indigenous inhabitants. The Chief Minister further spoke on strengthening the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system through the online portal launched earlier this year, terming it a shared responsibility to protect indigenous interests.
Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, in his address, said the Jubilee was not only a celebration of achievements but also a time for reflection and renewal. He commended the TUD for fostering unity among Tenyimi tribes since its formation in 1975 and urged members to uphold identity, collective voice, and mutual respect for lasting progress.
Former Chief Minister and Ura Academy President Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu underlined the importance of Tenyidie as the common language of the Tenyimia group, tracing its literary roots to 1939 and its introduction in academic institutions since 1977. He reaffirmed the Academy’s call for inclusion of Tenyidie in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Losii Dikho, MLA of 48 Mao Assembly Constituency, Manipur, expressed pride in representing the six Tenyimi MLAs from Manipur and conveyed their respect and solidarity to the Tenyimi community in Dimapur. He urged the community to preserve their culture, unity, and traditional values, especially among the younger generation. He also encouraged the promotion of the Tenyidie language and announced plans to initiate youth programmes and competitions in Manipur to help popularize the language and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Tenyimi unity and brotherhood.
The programme concluded with the announcement of the newly elected TUD office bearers for the 2024–2027 tenure, including Thepfuneituo Rio as President, John Kape, Lhikedu Chiero, and Kenilo Rengma as Vice Presidents, and Anilo Rengma as General Secretary.
