How is Nagaland's CM Promoting the Rich Traditions of 17 Tribes?

Kohima, June 6 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, highlighted the vital necessity of safeguarding, enhancing, and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the 17 tribes and various sub-tribes within the state. In an inauguration ceremony for a seven-storey hub dedicated to Naga handloom, handicrafts, and cultural promotion, the Chief Minister underscored the cultural and economic significance of this new facility, dubbing it a “beacon of identity and opportunity”.

This impressive 7-storey Nagaland State Emporium Complex in Kohima represents a significant initiative aimed at promoting and preserving the state’s rich handloom and handicrafts traditions.

Rio stated, “The diversity of our state, represented by over 17 major tribes, creates a rich tapestry of customs, attire, and traditional artistry. Every motif and weave tells a story. We must preserve and promote these with authenticity and pride.”

The Chief Minister further emphasized the necessity for proper documentation and quality assurance within the sector, highlighting the importance of archiving traditional songs, artifacts, textiles, and cuisines.

“Authenticity must not be diluted. Designs must receive approval from tribal authorities before production. Let us protect the integrity of our culture while adapting for broader markets,” he remarked.

Rio also advocated for collaboration between professional designers and local artisans, the promotion of Naga cuisine, and the establishment of structured systems for value addition.

“Let us not merely export raw materials, but create finished products that showcase the richness of our traditions,” he urged, calling on both private and government partners to invest in skills, institutions, and marketing initiatives that elevate Nagaland’s craftsmanship to global standards.

Prasielie Pienyu, Chairman of the Nagaland Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd (NHHDC), noted that the inauguration of this 7-storey building marks not just the completion of a structure, but the manifestation of a long-cherished vision.

“This new complex stands as a symbol of our cultural pride, the resilience of our artisans, and the economic potential of the handloom and handicrafts sector in Nagaland,” he stated.

Pienyu revealed that the Corporation has previously established emporiums in Delhi, Kolkata, and five districts across Nagaland, serving as crucial platforms for showcasing and sustaining the state’s traditional crafts.

“These emporiums go beyond commerce - they embody our values, support local livelihoods, and carry forward our cultural legacy,” he asserted.

A significant highlight of the day’s event was the formal introduction of the Naga Unity Shawl, designed to visually represent the collective identity of the Naga people across tribal lines.

While each tribe in Nagaland possesses its unique traditional shawl, the concept of a shared shawl symbolizing Naga unity had long been envisioned. The Unity Shawl has now been conceptualized and woven at the Weaving Production Centre of NHHDC Ltd., Dimapur.

The men’s shawl features a design comprising three panels, with the top and bottom panels showcasing the commonly used Naga colors—black, red, and white. The central panel is white, bordered with black and embellished with painted or embroidered motifs representing elements common to all Naga tribes. The women’s shawl is a single-panel design divided into three sections, with the top and bottom showcasing multicolored stripes that reflect the color palette seen across Naga women’s attire. The central white section features motifs inspired by traditional ornaments and crafts, symbolizing the artistry and strength of Naga women.

The unveiling of these shawls serves as a step towards establishing a shared visual symbol of unity among the diverse tribal communities of Nagaland.