Correspondent
KOHIMA, December 2, 2019: The World War- II Peace Rally which is being organised every year as part of Hornbill Festival by Nagaland Adventure & Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) to commemorate the fond memories of the Battle of Kohima culminated at WW-II Museum Complex, Kisama on 2nd December 2019. The culmination programme was graced by DGP Nagaland TJ Longkumer and Major General PC Nair, YSM IGAR (North) as guest of honour. Principal, Woodstock International School, Mussoorie, Dr Craig Allen Cook graced the programme as the special invitee.
DGP Nagaland, TJ Longkumer while delivering a short speech said that war, violence and killing is not an option these days. The WW-II gave an indelible mark in our history and we still remember the soldiers who fought the battle including the civilians and other innocent people who lost their lives because of this battle, he added.
Advisor NAMSA & Advisor to Chief Minister of Nagaland, Abu Metha, in his introductory remarks, said that the World War-II is being organised every year coinciding with the celebration of Hornbill festival at Kisama with an objective to spread the message of peace, love and understanding to the rest of the world. "Kisama and its adjoining areas is the place where the battle was fought 75 years ago and this battle has changed the course of history", he mentioned. He asked all the tourists coming from outside the state for this festival to be the ambassadors of Nagas in spreading the message of peace to outside world and carries only good memories when they go home. He also urged them to come again with friends, family members and loved ones in the coming years. Over the years, "the World War-II Peace Rally is one of the most attractive events of Hornbill festival not because of attires and armories but because of the peace message it carries to other parts of the world".
Prizes were distributed in different categories,
1. Most original vehicle, Jeep no 7
2. Best maintained vehicle, Jeep no 3
3. Most disciplined squad, Jeep no 2
4. Best weaponry squad, Jeep no 6
5. Best tourism promotion squad, Jeep no 3
6. Best ladies squad, Jeep no 8
7. Best uniformed squad, Jeep no 5
8. Best family squad, Jeep no 4
Parade Commander Moa Longkumer gave the battle report while Neingulie Nakhro chaired the programme. Vote of thanks was proposed by member NAMSA, Kuputo Shohe.