Nagas Should Be Grateful to Bengalis: Rio

Kohima, Oct 31 : Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said the Nagas should be grateful to Bengalis for the fact that the bengalis was instrumental in establishing the administrative system in the state during the initial period of statehood.

Delivering his inaugural speech at the Nagaland Day celebration at ICCR Auditorium in Kolkata yesterday, Mr Rio made a special mention of the invaluable services rendered to Nagaland by former Governor Shyamal Dutta.

Mr Rio also mentioned the contribution of Mr Dutta towards various developmental initiatives in the state, official sources said today. Mentioning that he was once a student of Sainik School, Purulia, and the college in which he received higher education was in Darjeeling, Mr Rio said he was mentally integrated with Bengalis and their culture.

''I feel at home in their company,'' Mr Rio added. Speaking on the occasion, former governor Shyamal Dutta expressed his fond memories during his stay in Nagaland.

''Nagaland is a lovely state. It is a place known for its people and culture. The diverse culture of Nagaland is not only unique but also bold and beautiful.