The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee attended a cultural programme followed by Banquet hosted by the Governor of Nagaland on May 14, 2013 at Raj Bhavan, Kohima.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said it is essential for the people of Nagaland to seek out a peaceful environment wherein their dreams can be achieved without "fear or favour”. Peace and security are essential to any development. He appealed to all citizens to work towards it and called on Young people to eschew all forms of violence.
The President said the onus is on the privileged gathered at the banquet to ensure Nagaland has its rightful place in our great nation. The aim for the next fifty years should be for a fully developed Nagaland wherein the young people are able to find the same avenues as in the rest of the country. To meet these goals and to ensure that Nagaland is an equal and contributing partner to nation-building, the admirable Naga pride must also be matched with hard work and sacrifice.
The President urged the citizens of the North East bordering international borders to actively seek business and industry in our neighbouring countries and be part of the great Indian diaspora, who are today transforming lives in our country and also the countries they are naturalised in. He called upon them to be global citizens in their work and outlook.
This release issued at 1230 hrs