Chumoukedima, Nagaland, June 24 (HBTV): State government leaders are congratulating a Naga cultural doyen from Mokokchung district, Sangyusang Pongener, for his being conferred the Padma Shri 2026 in the field of arts.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Nagaland minister Jacob Zhimomi, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media to convey congratulations to Sangyusang Pongener on his being conferred the Padma Shri Award. The award was conferred by the president of India.
In X post, Rio stated that Pongener’s lifelong commitment to preserving the rich folk heritage of Nagaland over the past six decades was inspiring. Congratulating him, Rio wished Pongner of continued success in all his endeavors.
Likewise, Minister Zhimomi posted a congratulatory message for the Padma Shri awardee.
Having dedicated his whole life towards preservation and promotion of indigenous Naga folk traditions, Zhimomi said of the awardee, that Nagaland is extremely proud of him for this befitting recognition. The minister wished Pongner the best wishes.
Assam chief Minister Himant Biswa Sarma also posted saying that the occasion was a priceless moment that has made northeastern people proud. Sangyusang Pongener is an institution in preserving the ancient Ao Naga folk arts, Sarma posted. He is an inspiration, said the Assam chief minister.
The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, following the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, and Padma Bhushan.