Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio urged women to push beyond traditional roles into governance and professional leadership. He addressed the first general conference of the Tenyimi Women Union Nagaland on Wednesday at the Multipurpose Building in Kohima Village. Women contribute to the social, economic, and institutional growth of society. Their participation in government has climbed from 8.3 percent two decades ago to roughly 31 percent today.
Education is the key. Rio noted that women now frequently outperform men in competitive exams. He praised their work in hospitality, tourism, agriculture, and handicrafts. The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of their influence on the next generation. "When you educate a boy, you educate one person. But when you educate a girl, you educate the whole family," he said.
The event also served as a platform to discuss the Naga political issue. Rio confirmed the Centre has appointed Ajit Lal as the new interlocutor for peace talks. He noted that discussions at the Group of Ministers level remain a priority for finding a resolution. He called on the Tenyimi community, which includes the Angami, Chakhesang, Pochury, Rengma, and Zeliang tribes, to unify. "We are trying to bring unity because once Tenyimi is united, we can inspire other tribes to bring Naga unity. Otherwise, at this juncture, Nagas as a people are in a very difficult situation," he stated.
Advisor for Science and Technology Kuzholuzo Neinu served as the guest of honour. He emphasized that heritage relies on the values passed down by ancestors. Neinu argued that women must have a real seat at the table. He said a community cannot claim unity unless women contribute to key decisions. The conference theme focused on honouring roots while navigating a changing world.
The Tenyimi Women Union declared new office bearers for the 2026-2029 term. Ruokuoheü Miachieo will serve as the new president. The Angami Women Organisation hosted the event. The program included folk songs from the Chakhesang and Rengma Mothers’ Associations and a report from general secretary Atono Nyuthe.
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