Ao Naga community across Nagaland celebrated the vibrant Moatsü festival, from May 1 to 3, with traditional fervour. At the Süngratsü Green Moatsümong festival, held at Yimchalu, deputy chief minister T.R. Zeliang underscored the need for deeper political cohesion. The event also witnessed the inauguration of Dr. Imtiwapang Aier Sports Complex.
Zeliang urged the leaders and citizens to use such gatherings to foster respect, understanding, and cooperation beyond political divides.
Zeliang, who is the brother-in-law of the late Dr. Imtiwapang Aier, lauded the event organizers– the Süngratsü Village Council, Süngratsü Senso Mungdang, and Süngratsü Mejensanger Putu Menden—for uniting the community through the celebration.
He commended the decision to inaugurate the sports complex during Moatsümong, describing it as a fitting tribute to Dr. Aier, a respected leader and former speaker of the 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
He described Dr. Aier as an “illustrious and upcoming leader,” asserting that naming the complex in his honor stands as a lasting symbol of political leadership and progress for the Ao community and Nagaland at large. Zeliang was accompanied by advisor of law & justice T.N. Manen, DPDB Kohima chairman, Dr. Ato T. Rhutso, MLA, additional chief secretary and finance commissioner Sentiyanger Imchen, and Achumbemo Kikon, MLA.
Meanwhile, addressing the media, Süngratsü Senso Mungdang general secretary T. Imlitoshi Walling advocated for the revival of sustainable practices rooted in Ao traditions. He highlighted the negative environmental impact of shifting from natural materials like bamboo and thatch to harmful single-use plastics in modern festivities.
Walling revealed that the Green Moatsü movement, initiated by the village, promotes reuse, recycling, and environmentally friendly alternatives, aiming to spread sustainable practices across the district.