NAMSAI, 11 Sep: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna urged all stakeholders to work together to safeguard the region's rivers, aquatic biodiversity and cultural heritage, saying that rivers and streams are not merely sources of water but living ecosystems that support life and are deeply connected to the region's history, culture and traditions.

"The lifestyle of our tribal people is deeply associated with nature and we have lived with nature for ages. Therefore, efforts must be on to protect and conserve water and forests," he said.

Mein was speaking at the concluding day of the second Nadi Utsav - an initiative dedicated to the conservation of rivers, aquatic flora and fauna, and the rich biodiversity - in TaKonmu on Friday.

He urged people to refrain from illegal fishing and hunting and make collective efforts to conserve biodiversity and rejuvenate streams and water bodies.

Describing Nadi Utsav as a humble beginning, he said the initiative reflects the vision and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards rejuvenating and strengthening ecosystems.

The culmination of the festival in TaKonmu, also known as Tungnamphi in Noichenam (Tengapani), holds deep cultural and historical significance. The sacred site has long been associated with the Tai Khamti community, serving as a place of worship and prayer, as well as an important historic route for trade and barter with Sadiya.

The deputy chief minister stressed that conservation must go beyond protecting the natural environment and must also encompass the preservation of the cultural heritage, traditions and historical connections that have evolved alongside the region's rivers and waterways.

The event was attended by Namsai ZPC Chau Sujana Namchoom, DC Lobsang Tsering, monks, community leaders and youths. [DCM's PR Cell]