Pork is a primary food item in the State of Nagaland

Pork is a primary food item in the State of Nagaland. A majority of Nagaland’s over 20 lakh people take pork as part of a traditional diet; the demand is unlikely to decrease yet. Nagaland State’s pork market is dependent on supply from outside as the local production level is insufficient to meet the demand. Several factors are deterring local farmers from producing enough for domestic consumption; one factor is the pricing of supply pork against which local farmers are unable to compete.

A Naga piggery owner, Savino, who has been raising pigs for over 20 years, says, “The cost of feed outside the State must be very less. Otherwise, how would they be able to rear so many pigs?”

At present, the retail price of local pork is not less than Rs.200 a Kg whereas, strangely, ‘Supply Pork’ costs anywhere between Rs.160 to Rs.180 per Kg. Moreover, the more remote an area is from distribution hubs, like Dimapur and Mokokchung, higher the price. This is due to logistical costs involved, which applies to prices of all imported fresh food items.

This shows that people with lower incomes, living in remote areas of Nagaland, with poor transport connectivity and with lesser income opportunities, are doubly disadvantaged. Consumers are relatively aware that Supply Pork is of lower quality and therefore prefer local pork; however, price and availability become dominating influences on their buying decision, especially for those with lower disposable incomes – who comprise the highest percentage of the Naga public.

According to findings of a study conducted on the ‘Supply Chain of Pigs from Outside the State’ by Dr. Simon Ao, bulk of Nagaland’s pork supply comes from Uttar Pradesh: Barielly, Badayu, Bewar (Mainpuri), Bidhuna (Auraya), Farukabad (Fathenagar), Kanpur, Rae Barielly, Amethi, Faizabad, Jaunpur, Allahabad – Mehowa, Naini & Begum Bazaar, Gonda and Balia etc. The supply route starts from NH 24 connecting to NH 39, and pigs transported to Dimapur (Nagaland), Jorahbad (for Megahlaya and Assam) and Mizoram.

According to the 2010-11 Administrative Annual Report of the Department of veterinary and animal husbandry, Government of Nagaland, Nagaland’s total livestock import stood at Rs. 221.67 crores. Of this, a majority might be of pork, given that 207 pigs are slaughtered daily throughout Nagaland (supply pork), as per Dr. Simon Ao’s report of 2010-11. Today, the cost of the same (per kg) has doubled.

How is Supply Pork from outside dominating the local market?
According to Rev. Supong Aier, President of NPFA (Nagaland Pig Farmers Association), “Local farmers are unable to produce enough for the market… the State Government is trying to uplift local piggery industry but the funds should be channelized properly; genuine farmers and entrepreneurs should be identified. High feed cost is a huge challenge… subsidized rate on feed should be worked out for local farmers.”

All local pig farmers trying to organize piggery units in Nagaland highlight one common issue, “Feed cost is too high, and profit margin is less.”

One critical point to consider is that the method of pig rearing at source points such as Uttar Pradesh, as the findings reveal, is not technologically superior. This raises important questions if farmers and consumers in Nagaland are aware of the quality of meat imported and why it is cheaper and what are the public health implications, besides losing out on revenue generation sources to importers.

The practice of pig rearing or backyard piggery is not new to the Nagas. Even if local production were to increase, importer’s pricing would pose a stiff competition and local farmers will continue to be disadvantaged. This scenario is not helping the State’s economy: the influx of “cheap” imported pigs is killing local production and affecting livelihood opportunities for local people.

Without pork import substitution policies with stronger tariff barriers by the State Government, there would be lesser incentive for local production to move up to the next level. Public health hazard posed by unregulated pork imports from unknown sources is another major issue that needs to be tackled.morungexpress

doyang hydro project nagaland

Doyang river is one of the most important river in the district. It is the biggest and longest rivers which run near the state’s

southern boundary. The Angami people in whose area it rises calls it Dzu or Dzulu. It first flows almost due north, slightly turn towards east when it received an addition of Saju, an eastward parallel tributary. The river then enters Zunheboto district still flowing north westwardly. It later on forms a boundary line between Sema and Lotha areas. In the west of Litami it makes westward bend and emerged in the western Lotha area in Wokha district, and proceeds to the southern border of the district, it suddenly turns westward and then debouches the hills for the plains west of Koro village and then finally falls in the Dhansiri river of Assam valleys. 

Many small hill streams from other districts have fallen into Doyang and it’s central and western parts. It has got three main tributaries such as Tsui, Tullo and Tishi.Tullo is the combined water of Keleki and Tangki streams, Tishi joins it in the Sema area. Doyang is not only important Doyangriver for Wokha district alone but it is also equally an important river of Nagaland. In the valley along the Doyang river the modern system of cultivation like terrace is being carried out successfully, especially in two particular areas near Pangti village called “Pofu hayi” and “Tentsu hay”. Besides vegetables, and fruits such as banana, pineapple papaya etc.are abundantly and luxuriantly grown in those two areas. 

KOHIMA CATHEDRAL

Catholic Cathedral Kohima, is an architectural landmark, besides its standing as the centre of the Catholic Church of Nagaland. The term Cathedral, drawn from Latin, means chair and therefore is the ‘Church where the Bishop of a diocese resides. The Diocese, to understand further is the geographical divisions of the Catholic Church. It is headed by the Bishop, presently Rt.Rev.Jose Mukala, and together with the clergy, religious and the laity forms a unit of the Church.

Cathedral Church too is a parish with a population of over 1500 parishioners, belonging to various tribes, cultural background, linguistic groups, etc

Catholic Cathedral of Kohima is a unique in many ways. Its architectural might and complexity is a surprise. The semicircular building with its modern architectural thinking covers one side of the Armature hill with every bit of construction planned in details, providing no space to be wasted. Is façade is shaped in line with the traditional Naga House. A complete structure, including official and residential rooms!

Thanks to Lt.Rt.Rev.Abraham Alangimattathil, whose brain child this Cathedral is. He was the first Bishop of Nagaland. He wanted to provide a place for all to pray and spend time in solitude with the self and the Devine. His dreams tool to reality in the eighties and brought its consecration in January 1991.

             

The actual work began in 1986 and the dedication and consecration of the church was done in 1991. the land was purchased from Mr.Satuo of Kochtu clan. The lion’s share of the three crore financial expense came from the Japanese, who wished the church to be a place of prayer especially for the Japanese War victims who lay down their lives for their nation in the Second World war battle fought in Kohima. This affirmed in the prayer inscribed in English & Japanese script in the Cathedral Campus.”…It is with thankfulness that we heard that a Catholic Cathedral was built at Kohima, where Mass would offered every morning in the memory of the fallen…”

             

This semicircular gallery of pews for 3000 seating and 1500 standing capacity has its extraordinary aesthetic appeal. The special allotted places for baptism, confession, adoration, etc.add beauty to the church.

 The pages of historical developments include the great meetings of the reconciliation of the Japanese and the British war veterans. Therefore the Cathedral is not a mere memory of war but also the healing place of the war memories, the real need!

‘The Natural Light system’ has something outstanding in this building. The specially designed transparent roof, make it possible to have sufficient light inside at any time of the day. The artistic presentations add beauty to it.

The magnificent crucifix, so realistic its presentation, is carved in wood. The figure has 16 ft height, possibly one of the tallest wooden carved crucifixes in Asia.

The Naga cultural presentation is an outstanding feature of the campus. The building, painting, the furniture, etc. are modeled after the Naga tradition and heritage. In keeping up the Naga tradition, the campus is marked with four gates in four directions (North, South, West and East).

The Stations of the Cross posed in the main entrance is a special beautiful feature. It is the presentation of Jesus` final journey with the cross, the last journey to Calvary. The fourteen stations, pose a real replica to the faithful with its beautiful arrangement on the slop of the hill leading up to the Cathedral.

The Tomb of Bishop Abraham Alangimattathil

The Cathedral holds the mortal remains of Rt.Rev.Abraham Alangimattathil, the first Bishop of Nagaland. Having lived an extensive missionary life as a priest and as a Bishop in North East especially Nagaland. He was a great instrument of God`s grace to all. ‘He lived and died for Nagaland.’

Perpetual Adoration and intercessory prayers

In the crypt attached to the church, everyday from 8 am to 4 pm prayer and adoration go on in front of the Blessed Sacrament (Jesus in the form of Bread). Those in prayer offer praise and petitions on behalf of all.

A source of strength

         

The Cathedral is a place beyond tribal and denominational boundaries. It is a joy to see a lot of pilgrims coming from far and near. Some come just to see it while others spend time in prayer and silence and all return with a grace for themselves. The church holds daily Eucharistic celebration for people at 6.30 is. On Sundays it is held twice. Besides it holds regular spiritual programmes for the people of the locality and the area at large. Cathedral is a place of prayer, a place of peace. 

 Refer: http://kohimadiocese.org/cathedral.htmlhttp://kohimadiocese.org/cathedral.html

Angphang village, Mon-Nagaland.

Angphang village, Mon-Nagaland. Have no idea any one can please update the information here through your comments.....

Mon District

Mon district of Nagaland is simply a mystic and euphoric place that resonates the rich tribal heritage of the state. Home to the Konyak Nagas, Mon is an ethnic paradise and stupefying if nonetheless intriguing. Located in the northeastern part of Nagaland, Mon is well known for the headhunting tradition practiced ages ago by its inhabitants, the Konyak Nagas. Mon is located at an altitude of 897.64m above sea level.

The Konyaks of Mon are really an interesting tribe with a vibrant and rich heritage. Historically, the Konyaks of Mon district were tattoed warriors who used to practice headhunting back in the days. The tattoos on the faces and the exquisite jewellery adorning the warriors are signs of their achievements and instincts during the headhunting days. And the Konyak warriors of Mon wear them with pride.

A visit to the Mon district of Nagaland is incomplete without stopping by at the Angh’s house. Anghs are the hereditary chiefs which is prevalent only among the Konyaks. The Angh’s house is the biggest in the village and is adorned with skulls and exquisite woodwork. The tattoos, the ear rings, the colorful headgear et al marks the might and the power of the Angh.

 How to reach Mon, Nagaland?

Mon is well connected with Kohima, Dimapur, and Jorhat (Assam). There are direct bus services from these Kohima and Dimapur to Mon. There are no direct bus services from Jorhat to Mon and you have to first reach Sonari or Simulguri in Assam. Direct bus services to Mon are available from Sonari. However, there are no direct buses to Mon from Simulguri; you have to reach Naganimora to get on a direct bus to Mon.

Important Bus routes to Mon, Nagaland:

·         Sonari to Mon – 65km (direct bus service)

·         Simulguri to Naganimora to Mon – 20km+75km (change bus at Naganimora)

·         Kohima to Mon – 368km (direct bus service)

·         Dimapur to Mon – 294km (direct bus service) 

Places to visit in Mon, Nagaland

·          

·         Shangnyu Village – a prominent Konyak village known for its wonderful wooden monument measuring 8 feet in height and 12 feet in breadth

·         Chui Village – another interesting Konyak village known for the magnificent house of the Angh adorned with skulls

·         Naganimora – a beautiful small town in Mon district known for its breathtaking wide panoramic views

                         Longwa Village – one of the biggest and the most interesting village in Mon, Nagalandlocated along international boundary line with Myanmar; one half of the Angh’s house falls within the Indian territory, whereas the other half comes under Myanmar.

Naga ornaments

The ornaments are simple but pretty. A necklace of beads is generally worn round the neck. The beads may be made of some kind of stone or shells. The ears are decorated with a tuft of cotton  wool or red paper or anything  else depending upon the individuals fancy. The armlets are of ivory or brass. On the legs rings of cane are worn by the Angamis and Konyaks, these leggings are not merely ornamental and it is said that they are an aid to climbing as well. All Naga tribes use hair for decoration. In earlier days, human hair was very much sought  after  and women  with flowing locks were the worst sufferers, but now goat's  hair is generally used. The dress and ornaments worn on ceremonial occasion are gorgeously colourful.

Longleng District

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Longleng District, the Home of the Phom Nagas, Longleng District is a strip of mountainous territory having no plains and situated in the northern Nagaland. Longleng District is located between longitude 94°E - 95°E and latitude 26°N - 27°N of the Equator. Longleng District has a total area of 1066.80 sq k.m.
Longleng District have One State and 3 District bounderies. On the East it shares boundery with Tuensang and Mon district of Nagaland. On North it has Nagaland’s Inter-State boundary with Assam. On the west it shares boundary with Mokokchung District of Nagaland. On the South it shares boundery with Tuensang and Mokokchung district of Nagaland.

Longleng district is the home of the Phom Tribe. The Phomes are hard working , industrious and laborious and sportive tribe by nature and inhabiting the area bounded by Assam in north, Mon district in the East, Tuensang district in south and Mokokchung district in the west.

Though in the past they were fierce headhunters, having rivalry even among the Phomes, but with the advent of Western civilizations like education and Christianity, they have transformed themselves into a refine society and are now rapidly coming up at par with other society of the state, particularly the younger generation.

Thw forefathers of the Phome Tribe practice a ritual to which the early missionaries have term it as Animisms. Today the Phome tribe is Christian and as such the Church plays an important role in their social setup.

The Phoms have 4 major festivals, the most important of which is Monyu. The others are Moha, Bongvum and Paangmo.

Monyu : Monyu is the most important traditional festival of the Phoms. It is a 12-day festival, which marks the end of winter and onset of summer (usually 1-6 April). The festival involves community feasting, dancing, singing and social work (such as repairs and construction of bridges). During the festival, the men present their married daughters or sisters with pure rice beer and special food to show their affection and respect.

One or two days before the festival, its arrival is signaled by beating log drums with a distinct tune called Lan Nyangshem. The priests or the village elders predict whether the festival would bring a blessing or a curse.

Phom Day :One More important festival of Phoms is Phom Day which is celebrated wvery year on 6th June. On this date of th eyear 1952 Phom Pleoples stopped Head Hunting and became loyal to Government.

There are three different major points from where one can reach Longleng headquarter/town.
1. From Dimapur
2. From Kohima
3. From Mokokchung

By Air:

One can either fly up to Dimapur(Nagaland) or Jorhat(Assam) or Dibrugarh(Assam) and come by above roadways to reach Longleng through taxi services.

By Rail:

One can either Reach up to Dimapur(Nagaland) or Amguri(Assam) or Mariani(Assam) and take the services as explained above by Roadways to reach Longleng.

Refer: http://longleng.gov.in/profile.html