GOC, spear corps honoured at Hornbill festival

Kohima: Lt Gen Gopal R, General Officer Commanding, Spear Corps attended the Hornbill Festival as the Chief Guest on Sunday accompanied by his wife, Mrs Rajashree Gopal. The visiting dignitaries were accorded a traditional welcome on arrival at the Kisama heritage village.

In his speech the General stated that he was honoured and delighted to be amongst the people of Nagaland for the 19th edition of Hornbill and congratulated the people on the 55th year of Statehood. Echoing the sentiments of late John Bosco Jasokie, former Chief Minister of Nagaland, he stated Nagaland as the land where race, rivers and ranges regulate the rhythm of life in addition to being the abode of honest and most hospitable people. He thanked them for giving him the opportunity to be part of the celebrations. He said that the Naga culture is not only about colorful costumes, dances and songs but more so of the values of honesty, simplicity, hospitality and the great Naga warrior tradition. He exhorted that these should be preserved, promoted and passed on to the younger generation.

The Corps Commander asked the people to take a pledge to ensure that peace, prosperity and progress return to this pristine land. He assured that Assam Rifles and Army will leave no stone unturned to assist the people in achieving these noble goals. The General thanked the Chief Minister for bestowing the honor on him of being the chief guest for Hornbill and wished the people Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance hoping that it will usher in peace and prosperity in the coming years. A defense PR statement unveiled.

Also read: The Hornbill Festival is here: Are you game?