President, GPRN/NSCN, Maj (retd) RM Lotha stated that while the previous year, 2024, might have been challenging for many, he went on to add that “brighter days” are ahead by saying that each one has the courage and determination to rise by facing those challenges.
By Imna Longchar, TFM Nagaland Correspondent
GPRN/NSCN on Friday called upon the Nagas to foster unity and expressed hope that the dawning of a new year would bring another inspiration, renewed hope, new thoughts, and new accomplishments.
President, GPRN/NSCN, Maj (retd) RM Lotha stated that while the previous year, 2024, might have been challenging for many, he went on to add that “brighter days” are ahead by saying that each one has the courage and determination to rise by facing those challenges.
He said that the spirit has kept the Nagas’ dream alive for generations and would continue for generations.
Lotha also called upon to pause and reflect on the path Nagas have taken all along and renew and resolve for the road ahead by citing that the Nagas stand at the crossroads of history, where the challenges of its time demand courage, unity, and an unyielding commitment to the ideals holding dear, as today, standing at the threshold of another chapter, it is reminded of the immense power the Nagas hold when united.
RM Lotha also went on to add that a “new year” not merely be a passage of time for the Nagas but a call to action, a moment to strengthen the bonds of unity and fraternity that bind them together as torchbearers of the nation’s destiny.
He maintained that Nagas must remain steadfast in their mission to self-determine their future, foster unity, and champion the prosperity of God-given homeland.
In this regard, he urged to pray hard and seek guidance from Almighty God to lead them into the land, while also urging to remember the solemn sacrifices made by the pioneers of the Naga national movement- their dreams, their determination and their courage.
He also reminded the immense hardship they went through in their endeavour to secure their freedom.
“Today every action we take must honour their legacy and forge a future that resonates with the dreams of those who fought to secure our freedom. Together, we can overcome adversity, turning every challenge into an opportunity to rise stronger,” he added.
Lotha also appealed to all sections of the Naga society including the different Naga political groups and the Naga civil societies to come to a common ground to work together, to think together and to speak together in one united voice.
“Today, more than ever, we must set aside the differences that divide the Naga family and embrace the common purpose that binds us. The challenges we face are not the burden on one group, one tribe or one organization alone- they belong to all of us. Let us not be divided by our ideologies, origins or affiliations.
“Let us instead be inspired by the vision of a united Naga nation, where every voice strengthens the whole and every hand contributes to the greater good. We must remember that division weakens us but unity empowers us. The battles ahead demand the collective strength of all patriots. Shoulder to shoulder, we can face the storms and emerge victorious for no force can withstand the resolve of a people united in purpose,” he said.
As Nagas step into a new year, he appealed to leave behind the grudges and discord of the past and embrace dialogue, understanding and a shared commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice and progress.
“Together, we can create a path towards a brighter future, where every Naga citizen plays their part in nation building where we can all be proud of,” Lotha said and appealed to each one renew their commitment for a shared cause.
“Let us march forward, not as a nation with fragmented notions and ideals, but as one unstoppable force. Let the New Year mark the dawn of unity strength and an unbreakable resolve to fight for the soul of our nation. Let our patriotism be the compass that guides our endeavours. The time to dream is now; the time to act is now. As we embrace the New Year, let us march onward with unwavering determination and unity of purpose,” Lotha added.
He ended his speech by stating that the future belongs to those who dare to dream and have the courage to make it a reality.