NAMSAI, SEP 11:

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Friday called for greater collective efforts to conserve rivers, aquatic biodiversity and the cultural heritage associated with the region’s waterways while participating in the second edition of Nadi Utsav at Namsai.

Nadi Utsav is an initiative aimed at promoting the conservation of rivers, aquatic flora and fauna and the biodiversity that sustains the region’s natural ecosystems.

Speaking on the occasion, Mein said rivers and streams are not merely sources of water but living ecosystems that support diverse forms of life and are deeply connected with the region’s history, culture and traditions. He said the lifestyle of the tribal communities has long been closely linked with nature, making the protection of forests and water bodies a collective responsibility.

He called for concerted efforts to conserve biodiversity, prevent illegal fishing and hunting, and rejuvenate streams and water bodies.

Describing Nadi Utsav as a humble beginning, Mein said the initiative reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and guidance for rejuvenating and strengthening ecosystems. He expressed confidence that with greater public participation, the festival would expand and be organised on a larger scale in the coming years.

The culmination of the festival at TaKonmu, also known as Tungnamphi at Noichenam (Tengapani), carries deep cultural and historical significance. The sacred site has long been associated with the Tai Khamti community as a place of worship and prayer, besides serving as an important historic route for trade and barter with Sadiya.

Mein stressed that conservation efforts must go beyond protecting the natural environment and encompass the preservation of cultural heritage, traditions and historical connections that have evolved alongside the region’s rivers and waterways.

He urged all stakeholders and the people to work together to safeguard the region’s rivers, aquatic biodiversity and cultural heritage for future generations.

Namsai Zilla Parishad Chairperson Chau Sujana Namchoom, Namsai Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering, monks, community leaders and youths also attended the event.