Nagaland Governor wishes people on statehood day

Kohima: Governor P B Acharya has greeted the people of Nagaland on the 52nd Statehood Day today.

 Noting that peace has been the most cherished goal for the state for all these years, he said the signing of a historic framework agreement between Centre and NSCN (IM) on August 3 is a shining example of what the state can achieve.

 Acharya appealed to all the factions to join the peace process for a graceful and permanent solution of the Naga problem.

 The Governor also wished peace and prosperity to the people of Nagaland and hoped that the state would scale new heights.

 "All these years we proudly showcased our rich beautiful cultural life....Now it is time that we excel in professional service line like medicine, engineering, law and business," he said.

 Backward areas like Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire and Longleng require special attention for equal development, he said emphasising on improving infrastructure of government schools.

 Referring to Hornbill Festival, Acharya said it is held to commemorate statehood and express "resolve to preserve the distinct culture and traditions."

 It was on this day in 1963 that the Nagaland attained statehood as the 16th state of the Indian Union and second in North East after being bifurcated from Assam.

 The day coincides with the annual tourism promotional festival of the state ? Hornbill Festival at Kisama Naga Heritage Village, some 12 km on the Southern Angami region of the state capital.