Ukhrul: 40 students from Ukhrul district visited Camp Hebron GHQ on an Educational cum Exposure Trip from November 18-20, 2023. The institutions are Pettigrew College, Sentinel College, Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School and KTL Excel Higher Secondary School. The tour was led by Sorinthan Haorei and Easternlight Zimik. The main objective of the tour is to get an exposure to Camp Hebron GHQ and interact with the leaders to understand more about the Nagas and the position of the Naga National Movement better. The team was warmly welcomed by the Naga Army on November 18.
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The students had the honour to meet and have a fruitful interaction with the Longvibu of the Naga Army, General Ningkhan Shimray, MC, VC on November 19. The students had the privilege to ask questions and received satisfactory answers from the Longvibu.
The Longvibu in his speech said, “Revolution invites us to expand our perspectives, challenge conventional thinking, and strive for transformative change. It calls for redefining societal structures, fostering inclusivity, and pursuing progress that benefits everyone. It’s a call to push boundaries, embrace diversity, and create solutions that cater to the needs of a rapidly changing world. In a Revolution, we must think beyond. When I was in Tihar jail, I think beyond the wall. I know there is freedom beyond the wall. Sacrifices endured in the belief that freedom awaits the Nagas. It’s this unwavering hope that fuels our resilience amid challenges, driving our commitment to achieve the cherished goal of freedom for our people.”
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Furthermore, he said “Yes, the conflict between Israel and Hamas is indeed multifaceted and encompasses historical, political, and territorial aspects. The recognition of Israel’s history by Arab nations has been a contentious issue, contributing to the complexity of the situation. The conflict has roots in a long-standing history marked by territorial disputes, differing narratives, and geopolitical complexities. The conflict’s root cause lies in the lack of recognition of historical narratives by Arab nations, contributing to ongoing tensions. This historical divergence in perspectives has played a significant role in shaping the complexities and dynamics of the conflict between Israel and the Arab world, including groups like Hamas. There is great danger if the history of the nation is not recognised.”
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“However, the Government of India recognised the unique history and situation of the Nagas on July 11, 2002 during a joint communique at Amsterdam. The recognition of our history is a rare privilege, often absent in the narratives of powerful nations. Gratitude for this acknowledgment is paramount, reminding us to humbly appreciate and honour the intricate tapestry of our past, an acknowledgment for which we attribute our gratitude to a higher providence. Nagas should be grateful! This is one great achievement”, said the Longvibu.
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The students had a blessed time in the GHQ church on Sunday morning and evening to have a fellowship with the Naga Army. Two students Taisung Keishing of Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School and Rinkhanla Ngamsha Kashung of KTL Excel Higher Secondary had the privilege to present special songs in the fellowship. The students had the privilege to again meet and have an informal interaction with the Longvibu in the evening at his lawn. The Longvibu of the Naga Army shared his experience and journey of being a freedom fighter candidly to the likings of the students.
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The students also met and interacted with other high and low ranking officials of the NSCN-IM. The students were able to visit different important places located at the GHQ.
They had their best times during the visit and which had enriched the knowledge of the students tremendously. “The tour helped me understand the history of the Nagas better. It will be beneficial for students to learn about the Nagas in educational institutions” said Thangmeirin Zimik of Sentinel College. Another student, Thanrei Vashi said “It inspired me to see the service the Naga Army sincerely fighting for the Nagas cause. I pray and hope that the public will love and care for the Naga nation in the same way”.
The students were full of gratitude for the warm hospitality of the Naga Army during their stay. The team left Hebron on November 20 for Ukhrul.
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