Kohima, May 1: British Prince Andrew, Duke of York, today paid homage here to the hundreds of soldiers of the Allied forces who fell in the fierce battle of Kohima in 1944 in the Second World War, by placing a wreath at the Commonwealth War Cemetery.
Prince Andrew, who is visiting India to commemorate the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, is the first person from the Royal family to visit the war cemetery constructed in memory of soldiers of the Allied forces.
Prince Andrew also visited the Second World War museum at Kisama Heritage Village, 12 km south of here. In a statement, Naga Hoho president Kevilatuo Kewho and vice-president Inaka Assumi said the World War Cemetery would perhaps remind the Prince of the crucial role Nagaland and its people had played in world history and history of the British empire.
“We believe memories are long and for all the support and sacrifices made for the British empire, the brave warriors of the Naga Hills will not be forgotten by the British government,” the statement said.
Later speaking at a civic reception accorded to him, the 52-year-old royal said while remembering those who gave their lives in battle one should also make the younger generation aware about the sacrifices made by soldiers to ensure the freedom of another generation.
“Shortly after the war Lord Mountbatten visited Kohima; the Queen knows the Nagas well; we recognized the past and cherished it but future is more important,” the Prince said.
He also insisted on strengthening the partnership between India and Britain in various fields for the benefit of the new generation.
Welcoming Prince Andrew, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said while an entire generation grew up hearing the painful stories of war, his visit was expected to usher in a new era of greater partnership and better understanding between the Nagas and the British.
“Your visit will also re-kindle old friendship and shared history,” the chief minister said.
Rio reminded the Prince that during the First World War thousands of Nagas served in Europe in the labour corps and mentioned the crucial role played by the Nagas in the victory of Allied Forces in the decisive battle of Kohima during World War II.
Rio presented a Konyak brass gong, a head gear, a spear and a dao and two bamboo baskets to the Prince amidst applause.
