Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton on Saturday called upon the Lotha community to strengthen unity, preserve its cultural identity and work collectively for a better future. He was speaking as Special Guest at the Tokhu Emong celebration organised by the Dimapur Lotha Hoho at the State Stadium, Dimapur.

Extending Tokhu greetings, Patton said the festival was not merely about feasting and celebration but an occasion to thank God for good health, protection and the blessing of witnessing another year. Recalling his early association with Dimapur, he said he studied at Holy Cross School in 1965 and was among its first students. Festivals were not celebrated on such a grand scale in earlier years, he observed, but circumstances had improved over time through God's blessings.

He suggested that the community consider a collective celebration once every three or four years, instead of separate celebrations every year, to bring people together, strengthen relationships and know one another better. He also urged the Lotha community to reciprocate the cooperation and participation that other communities extend during their programmes and celebrations.

Naga political issue, extortion-

On the Naga political issue, Patton stressed the need for unity among the different Naga groups, stating that the Government of India would not provide separate solutions to 36 or 37 factions. He called on all groups to unite and coordinate with one another, asserting that a collective approach was necessary to move forward.

He also expressed concern over the growing problem of donations and extortion in Dimapur, Niuland and Chümoukedima, stating that the highest levels of extortion were linked to demands for donations. The public, he said, had also been voicing the need for all groups to come together and work towards unity.

Education-

Speaking on education, Patton encouraged students not to pursue studies merely for qualifications but to aim higher and work hard to achieve their ambitions. He cautioned them against misusing mobile phones and urged responsible use of technology.

Language and culture-

Emphasising the importance of preserving Lotha language and cultural identity, Patton expressed concern that many people in Dimapur, particularly among the younger generation, were unable to speak their mother tongue. He urged Lotha parents to take responsibility for teaching their children the language at home and encouraged the youth to uphold traditional attire, customs and cultural practices.

He said the Chief Minister had taken serious note of the need to preserve and promote indigenous culture, adding that such efforts should not be confined to the Hornbill Festival but should also be encouraged through initiatives like the Mini Hornbill Festival.

On development, he referred to Article 371 and observed that development-related matters continued to face challenges, which the Chief Minister had been consistently emphasising.

Reconciliation-

Describing Tokhu as an occasion for reconciliation and reflection, Patton said the festival offered an opportunity to forgive one another, resolve misunderstandings and ponder collectively over ways to build a better tomorrow while seeking God's blessings.

Referring to his 44 years in politics, he shared his experiences and urged the people to move forward with unity, mutual understanding and a collective commitment towards the future.