Ukhrul, September 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a cultural welcome by the Rongmei Naga community during his visit to Peace Ground in Churachandpur district on Saturday, according to a press release issued by the Tokpa Kabui Village Authority.
The villagers of Zeihkuluang Tokpa Kabui, one of the oldest settlements in Churachandpur district, performed Pazeimei, a traditional Rongmei ceremony symbolising hospitality and honour. Founded around 1500 AD, the village has played a historic role in the region, the release noted.
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On the occasion, the Prime Minister inaugurated an Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Zeihkuluang Tokpa village. Village chief and chairman S.K. Gaipuibi was quoted in the release as describing the project as a “significant milestone” for the region’s development journey. He expressed gratitude to the Union and State governments, and the Department of Tribal Affairs & Hills, adding that the initiative is expected to “transform education and empower local youth.”
The release further said that the Rongmei and other minority tribes in the Loktak Project area have long faced political and economic neglect, with limited access to development opportunities. It added that the community has appealed to authorities to ensure the voices of minority groups are heard in future policy-making, so that “inclusive and equitable development for all” can be realised.
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