Nagaland observes Remembrance Day at Kohima War Cemetery

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in his address said that the Remembrance Day is a day to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace, justice, and freedom.

Expressing his respect to all the veterans and their families, and to the people of Nagaland for preserving the history of the place, Rio said, "May we never forget the bravery of those who gave their lives so that we may live in peace".

Stating that the Kohima War Cemetery, located in the State capital, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the battle and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Rio said, "It is the resting place of 1,420 Allied soldiers, and also the place where 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers were cremated according to their faith."

He said that the Naga people have converted the experience of violence into a message for global peace, and observe the memories of the battle to spread the message of peace and love.

Further, Rio maintained that Kohima and the Naga people will continue to play a contributory role for the good of humanity.

The Chief Minister while dwelling on the words inscribed on the Kohima Epitaph: "When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today," said that these words serve as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made, urging us to carry forward the torch of remembrance and respect for those who served. Speaking as the honoured guest, Dr Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner said that the Commonwealth War Graves Association assisted by the Nagaland government have done a remarkable job in the maintenance and upkeep of the war grave cemetery, the final resting place for so many heroes.

Highlighting the turn of events that had happened in the Battle of Kohima, he said many accounts have been written here of what transpired in 1944, and perhaps because of its remoteness to Europe, the Battle of Kohima has been referred to previously as the forgotten battle back in the UK, "It is far from forgotten by anyone here", he said however a concerted effort has been made to raise the profile of the Battle of Kohima to such a point that in 2013, it was voted as Britain's greatest ever battle.

Dr. Fleming further acknowledged the Chief Minister explaining of how the state of Nagaland and its people stand for peace, and remarked that he is committed to the ongoing friendship and collaboration with the Government of Nagaland.

He expressed his happiness that the Welsh Government have agreed to be one of the partner with the state government for the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival.

Two minute silence was observed in memory of the fallen soldiers. Later in the program, a vintage car rally was flagged off by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Andrew Fleming and CM Rio, in the presence of Ministers, Advisors and MLAs and other officers from the Central and State Government and Armed Forces, Ex-servicemen and former Army Veterans. (ANI)