SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SHRIMATI PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL AT THE PUBLIC RECEPTION

Kohima, Nagaland, 10th March, 2011

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am delighted to be in Kohima, the beautiful capital of Nagaland. The warm, colorful and proud population of this State along with its immense natural beauty has made an everlasting impression on me. I have visited Nagaland before, however, this is my first visit as President, and I convey my greetings and best wishes to the people of Nagaland.

On account of its mountains, picturesque landscape, forests and greenery, Nagaland is often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East". The majestic peaks Saramati and Japfu, which has the tallest Rhododendron tree in the world, I am sure will inspire people to scale new heights of progress and achieve new levels of prosperity. Already a land where there are festivals for every season, development and growth can further add greatly to the many joyous celebrations. In fact, the famous Hornbill Festival held every year in this heritage village of Kisama, not only showcases the rich traditions of Nagaland, but is also a celebration of the potential for the future.

Since attaining Statehood in 1963, Nagaland has made significant progress. Even though development started under very challenging circumstances, much has been achieved over the years in different fields. With only less than a thousand kilometers of road then, it now has more than 11,000 kilometers of roads. From just 6 electrified villages then, today there are more than 1100 villages which receive electricity. The literacy rate has reached an impressive 66.6 percent and life expectancy is at about 73 years. Nagaland excels in many social indicators as compared to national averages. I compliment you for these achievements and urge that you continue advancing on the path of development and peace.

It is important to remember that development needs peace and stability so that the people can devote their energy to cultural, educational, social and economic development. Every individual wants a life of peace, economic and personal security, and a life of dignity. I would, therefore, call on each and every one to ensure an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. With its natural resources and conducive atmosphere, Nagaland can aspire to become one of the leading states of the North-East. People must work together as one unit, whatever tribe they are from, whatever region they may come from, and whatever community they may belong to, so that a vibrant Nagaland is created. A vibrant Nagaland shall add to the overall progress of the nation.

Our nation is moving ahead. Today, India is counted amongst one of the major economies of the world. Our objective is to have a high economic growth rate and to have an inclusive growth process. Measures that promote inclusiveness are very important for a country as large as India. Growth must reach all sections of society and all regions of the country. The accelerated development of the North-Eastern region, which has contributed much to the richness of the nation, is fundamental for the country's economic rise. Nagaland is very much part of this process.

I would like to emphasize on the development of physical infrastructure, particularly transport connectivity, which is a key prerequisite for economic development. Moreover, Nagaland should harness its resources and its many potential areas of growth. Agriculture has a significant share in the State's domestic product. I strongly believe that food security is a very important objective, and a focus on enhancing agricultural productivity through better seeds, better technology and better water management is essential for a sustainable and secure future. The State Government could think of change in the 'slash and burn' method of jhum cultivation, and instead move towards improved sustainable land-based means of livelihood. Natural and forest wealth are amongst the assets of Nagaland. Better management of forests, which have a wide diversity of flora and fauna including medicinal plants, can generate social, economic and environmental benefits. It is important to build capacity for undertaking forest based enterprises in a manner that while using forest resources, forest health is preserved, and its wild-life and bio-diversity are conserved.

Building of human resources will bring a large dividend to the State. Earlier today, I had the opportunity to interact with some Tribal Hohos, NGOs and representatives of civil society. I was impressed with my discussions with them, as also with their desire to work for the welfare of the State with a spirit of confidence. The quality of people, determines the direction and the vision for future growth. Hence, there should be substantial investment in human capital. Education is the gateway to opportunity. It equips the people to deal adeptly with challenges, and to bring new and innovative ways of handling situations and issues. Education, therefore, must continue to receive high priority in the State's agenda, as should making available quality health facilities for the people. A healthy citizenry is more productive, and healthy individuals can better achieve their full potential. Equally important is to impart to the people, skills that are required in a community. Horticulture, seri-culture, small scale industries, service industries and IT are sectors of promise in the State. Their full development will depend on trained personnel. Even bamboo, which provides the soul for traditional architecture, crafts and implements, can benefit from skill building and scientific development.

The handicrafts and traditions of Nagaland are unique. They are a priceless part of the nation's heritage. Hence, their preservation and continuation are important. The Kisama Heritage village seeks to promote respect for tribal culture, as also to preserve the varied cultural ethnic heritage, by providing a platform where the dialects, customs and traditions of all ethnic tribes of Nagaland can be seen. I am told that Naga dormitories - Morungs - of each tribe, are constructed here with their distinctive architectural designs, offering also an opportunity for the youth of one tribe to learn more about other tribes and create a friendly atmosphere amongst them. If India is a country that epitomizes the concept of 'unity in diversity', then the North-East is its most visible embodiment. Among the North-Eastern states, Nagaland has the distinction of being a land of diverse tribes, cultures, colour and variety.

I would like to add that regional integration, drawing on regional commonalities and pooling together of regional resources, can result in maximization of benefits. I am pleased that the North-Eastern Region is pursuing Vision 2020 for its development, and also has a Regional Council. Moreover, this region stands strategically placed at the doorstep of the nations of South East Asia, and can play a crucial role in the development and effective fructification of our "Look East Policy". This will provide economic benefits to Nagaland also. Increased connectivity with the nations to the East of India would open the scope for investment and tourism, including eco-tourism and culture tourism in the North-Eastern states, a sector which has not really so far performed to its potential.

Once again, I convey my greetings and good wishes to all the people of Nagaland. We respect the people of Nagaland and their culture. I am touched by the warm welcome and colourful reception you have accorded me. My mind is full of appreciation for the people of Nagaland. I would also like to thank the Governor, the Chief Minister and the Government of Nagaland. I am now greatly looking forward to the cultural performance here. On my return to New Delhi, I will be witnessing a cultural programme of all the tribes of India at PRAKRITI, a national level tribal festival - there too, I will get another opportunity to see the dances of Nagaland.

Thank you.

Jai Hind!