2 Day National Seminar, 11th & 12th June, 2025
A two day national seminar on “Border Dynamics in Northeast India: Challenges, Opportunities and Policy Imperatives” from 11th-12th June, 2025 was held at Baptist College, Kohima. The seminar was organised by Research & Development Cell (RDC) Baptist College, Kohima in collaboration with Department of History & Archaeology, Nagaland University, Kohima Campus.
Day One (11th June, 2025)
After registration from 9.00 -9.30 am, the first day started off with a formal Inaugural Session from 9.30 – 11.00 am at Rivenburgs Memorial Chapel. The day one witnessed two technical sessions and a Panel Discussion.
The Inaugural Session was chaired by Dr. Sentinaro, Seminar Convenor, Baptist College Kohima. Mr. VipralhouKesiezie, Chairman, Governing Body, Baptist College in his inaugural address presented the growing uncertainty of the future of the Northeast region and the vulnerable position in which the region stands as a political hotspot and further suggested possible measures for conflict resolution. The Keynote Speaker was Mr. Sanjoy Hazarika, Journalist, Author, Academic, Policy Expert, Founded the Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research, who gave an exploration of the core issues in the Northeast states from a personal perspective.
Rev. (Dr.) Rachülie Vihienuo, Executive Director, ABCC, said the opening prayer. Prof. (Dr.) Pum Khan Pau, Department of History and Archaeology, Nagaland University, Kohima, shared a short message, a special number was presented by Arenchenla Walling, member of Nagaland Folkloric, TaFMAand the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Kekuchol Pusa.
Report from the technical rooms
There were two technical sessions (Technical session – I from 11.30 am – 1.00 pm and Technical session –II from 2.00 pm – 3.30 pm) with parallel sessions in blended mode – Room Nos. 11 & 12 (Offline) and, 13 & IQAC (Online).
Technical Session- I
Room No. 11
Theme: Nationalism, Statehood and Identity Politics in the Northeast.
Ms.Rüülhou-ü Mere, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Baptist College Kohima, opened the session, introducing the chair Dr.Mhonthung Yanthan, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, St.Joseph College (Autonomus), Jakhama.
There were three paper presenters and three papers.
Rustom Kutum’s paper “The making of a Non-State Space to a Bordering Space: The Case of Nagalim”, attempts to investigate how the nation state and ‘indigenous’ communities like the Nagas living along the Indo-Myanmar borderlands will try to reconcile and navigate the rising challenges with the Indian Government’s announcement to fence India Myanmar border and to scrap the Free Movement Regime in 2024.
Seyiesilie Vüprü attempts to explore how the failure of mutual recognition between the Indian state and the Naga communities has entrenched mistrust, resistance and alienation in his paper titled “The Struggle for Recognition:Understanding the Naga Identity Crisis through Francis Fukuyama’s Identity: Contemporary Identity Politics and the Struggle for Recognition.”
Dr. Faith Elwin Kharbuli presented on “A Reality that Lingers: A Garo Narrative” with an attempt to try to understand the experience of violence that the Garo people faced on and after the Partition.
The session ended with a Q&A and a brief report on the session from the rapporteur.
Room No: 12
Theme: Ethnic Diversity and its Role in Border Conflict
The session was chaired by Dr. Videkhono Yhokha, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Baptist College, Kohima.The chairperson was introduced by Mrs. Kevino Nagi, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, Baptist College, Kohima.
There were four paper presenters and four different papers.
Dr. N. Yanpothung Ezung presented a paper on “Cross-Border Migration and its Impact on Identity, Security, and Governance in Northeast India: A policy Perspective.”Focusing on Assam, Nagaland and Manipur, the paper tries to explore the influence of migration on ethnic identity, politics, inter-group relation and demographic anxieties among indigenous communities.
Dr. Hiamthuiyang James’ paper was titled, “The Philosophy of Naga Identity Among the Rongmei in Manipur.”
I.Thsidelong Sangtam presented his paper, “Ethnic Diversity and its Role in Border Conflict with Special Reference to Northeast India.”
Dr. Tiatula Ozukum presented on her paper titled, “Impact of Conflict on Children and Teachers: Coping Mechanisms and Negotiations.”
The session had Q&A after each presentation and conudedwith conclusion remark and possible suggestions for the presenter by the chair.
Room No. 13 (Online)
Theme: Role of Civil Society in Peace Building and Their Impact on Borders.
Te session was chaired by Dr. Kewepfuzu Lohe, Principal, Baptist College, Kohima introduced by Ms. Setonu.
There were four paper presenters and four papers.
Oinam Mitrabati Devi presented a paper titled, “Displacement, Resistance and Peace Building in the Context of Manipur Conflict,” which explored how legal frameworks intersect with displacement and local resistance in the Manipur context.
Arica Tamang followed with her paper, “Women and Armed Conflict in Northeast India,” focusing on women’s experiences and their underrecognised roles in peace-making processes.
The final presentation was a joined paper by MongolsingRongphar and Dr. Thejani-i Pohena, “Inter-Ethnic Relationship in Shillong Times: A Story of Fear and Friendship”, examined media representation and inter-community dynamics in Shillong.
Each presentation was followed by an engaging questions and answers session and constructive feedback from the chair, which further enriched the discussions.
IQAC room (Online)
Theme: Migration, Identity and Livelihood
The session was chaired by Dr. Ghunato Neho, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Baptist College, Kohima.
There were five presenters and three papers.
A joined paper titled “The Gorkhaland Movement: A Historical and Political Quest for identity and Recognition” by Jane D’ Souza, Nima Thendup Bhutia and Tsgeten DomaLamasaa tries to examine the historical, ethnic, and socio-cultural factors that have contributed to the emergence of the Gorkhaland movement in the Darjeeling hills.
Aridam Dey’s presented a paper titled “Fortifying the Frontier: The Siliguri Corridor and North east- the three front dilemma in India.”
Hamtha Mukholee: Navigating Borders: A people centric exploration of migration and cross border trade dynamics at the Indo Myanmar Border” studies the interplay between migration and cross-border trade in Longwa village situated along the Indo Myanmar border to examine how different social practices shape local livelihoods, economic networks, and governance dynamics, providing a better understanding of borders not as a rigid dividing lines but as dynamic and multilayered.
Technical session-II
Room No.11
Theme: Oral Traditions and Folk Narratives on Border and Belonging
The session commenced with Ms.Rüülhouü, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, introducing the Chairperson Prof. Pum Khan Pau, Department of History and Archaeology, Nagaland University, Kohima.
There were four paper presenters and three papers.
A joint paper by WechieiiMedo and Dr.YanbeniYanthanon “Faith at the Peripheries: Examining Chakhesang Naga Ancestral Religion as Contested Space” was presented by Ms.Wechieii Medo. The presenter explored the ancestral religion Erolenyu practiced by the Chakhesang Nagas, highlighting its historical and cultural significance.
Mr.Honjem Konyak’s paper “Multidisciplinary Approaches to Archaeology of Northeast India: An Overview” examined how multidisciplinary approaches have enhanced archaeological understanding of Northeast India especially in tracing early human migration, settlement and subsistence. He also addressed challenges posed due to limited material remains and emphasized the importance of oral narratives and data-driven research in reconstructing the region’s past.
Dr. Ghunato Neho presented a paper titled “Indo-Naga Conflict: The Realities of Human Nature and the Ideological Catastrophe.” This paper examined the complexities of Naga identity and nationalism during the Indo-Naga conflict. It shed light on the voices of the marginalised and their struggle for new identity using Temsula Ao’s works as a medium to reconstruct and reflect the Naga identity.
The session concluded with Q&A segment.
Room No: 12
Theme: Historical Perspective on Border Conflicts.
The session was chaired by Dr. Lanukumla Ao, Assistant Professor, Department of History, Don Bosco College, Kohima, introduced by Dr. Kevino Nagi. This session explored historical, cultural, and contemporary dimensions of border conflicts. There were four presenters and four papers.
Dr. Ketoukhrie-ü’s paper, “Borderlands as Homelands: Amplifying Indigenous Voices in the Indo-Myanmar Borderlands”, emphasized indigenous perspectives from the Indo-Myanmar borderlands.
Dr. Sentinaro analyzed conflict and gender through literature in her paper, “Women’s Voices in Conflict: A Study of Monalisa Changkija’s Weapons of Words on Pages of Pain.”
Marcy Lhingneihoi Kholhou’s presentation, “Northeast India in the Contemporary Geopolitical Context: Strategic Imperatives and National Interest,” explored the strategic importance of the region in national policymaking.
Lastly, M. Abel Lalmuanzova Zou offered a micro-level view of everyday life in cross-border villages in his paper, “Negotiating International Border: Everyday life in the Village of Zokhawthar (India) and Khawmawi (Myanmar).”
The session was marked by thought-provoking questions and responses, encouraging deeper academic inquiry with constructive feedback from the chair to the presenters.
Room No. 13 (Online)
Theme: Impact of Border Issues on Trade, Industry, Commerce, and Tourism
The session was chaired by Dr. Tasongwi Newmai, Assistant Professor, NERIE-NCERT, Shillong. The chairperson was introduced by Mrs. Setonu, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Baptist College, Kohima.
During the session, four paper presenters shared their research on diverse aspects related to the session’s theme. The names of the presenters, their affiliations, paper titles, and a brief overview of each presentation are provided below:
Presenter : Mr Nungsangmongla Ozukum
Assistant Professor
Department of History
Norman Putsure College , Chümoukedima
Title : Crossing Boundaries : Exploring the Impact of Border Issues on Nagaland Tourism .
This paper aims to shed light on the complex dynamics between border disputes and tourism in Nagaland. It seeks to explain how ongoing border tensions affect travel and tourism, highlighting both the advantages and challenges. The study contributes to a better understanding of the intricate linkages between border politics and tourism development.
Key issues discussed included:
- Assam–Nagaland (Disputed Area Belt)
- Manipur–Nagaland (Kezotsa Forest, DzukouValley)
- Myanmar–Nagaland Border
The presenter also discussed several recommendations, including strengthening security, promoting year-round tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing inter-state cooperation.
Presenter :Dr Muleto Vero
Assistant Professor
Department of History
St. Joseph University, Chümoukedima
Title : Transitional Identities and Socio Economic Realities of Naga Tribes at the Indo-Burma Border: A Case Study of the Konyak, Khiumniugan and Yimchunger .
This paper explores the lived realities of Eastern Naga tribes—specifically the Konyak, Khiumniungan, and Yimchunger—who straddle the Indo-Burma border. The study places particular emphasis on the far reaching socio-cultural and economic implications that arises from disputed borders . It also offers an insight into how these tribes navigate life between two nations while maintaining strong cross-border ties and shared cultural identities
Presenter : Samuel G Ngaite
Registrar , Rayburn College (Autonomous ), Manipur .
Title: Against Manufactured Marginality: Unpacking the Re- Unification Telos Driving the Anti-Colonial Resistance of the Zo people in the Indo-Myanmar Borderlands’.
The core of the paper is an attempt to unearth the underlying indigenous re-unification telos driving the anti-colonial contests of the Zo people in the Indo-Myanmar Borderland and their relentless efforts to preserve their sense of home in the face of powerful imposition and disruptions from without through the postcolonial era. By foregrounding local narratives, the speaker suggests that it will not only offer us an understanding of indigenous internalisation of border but will also help us understand border in prescribes from the inhabitants perspective
Presenters :
Khachülo Zehol
Research Scholar
Department of History
North-Eastern Hill University
Shillong
And
Dr. Vunlungwami Touthang
Independent Researcher
(Khachülo Zehol Keyekha presented on their behalf)
Title : Fractured Homelands : A historical inquiry into Naga and Kuki Border conflicts
This paper explores the historical roots of border conflicts that continue to shape the identities and lives of the Nagas and Kukis. Drawing on archival records, oral histories, and contemporary political movements, it examines how colonial border-making and state consolidation have marginalisedthese communities. The paper argues that current ethnic tensions and instability in borderland regions cannot be fully understood without addressing the enduring legacies of colonialism and unresolved historical grievances.
A Q&A session followed the presentations, making the session more interactive and insightful. It concluded with closing remarks delivered by the chair. Overall, it was an informative, engaging, and successful session.
Room: IQAC (Online)
Theme: Environment and Ecological Impact
Mr. L Thsidelong Sangtam, Assistant Professor, HoD, Political Science, Baptist College, Kohima introduced the chair for the session Mr. Seyiesilie Vüprü, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Baptist College, Kohima.
There were five presenters and four papers.
Irengbam Dayanishwari Devi submitted a video of her presentation on “Reviving the Nambul: A Legal Analysis of River Protection Laws in Manipur.”
Rani Chyrmang gave an online presentation attempting to make a legal analysis of the environmental degradation in Northeast India, with her paper titled, “Environmental and Ecological Challenges in Northeast India:A legal Analysis of the Right to Healthy Environment.”
Dr. Pinky Sagolsem’s paper titled “Traces of Ethnic Conflict in The Strange Affairs of Robin S. Ngangom by Robin S.Ngangom”, examines the traces and representation of ethnic conflict in Robin S. Ngangom’s poem.
Michi Rinya & Akash presented a joint paper on “Digital Nationalism at India’s Frontiers: Engaging with ArunachaliPeripheral Dynamics.” The paper attempts to understand how digital media has redefined concepts of nationhood, youth, politics, and borderland agency in contemporary India.
The session ended with a Q&A, along with feedback from the chair.
Panel Discussion: The Technical Sessions were followed by a panel discussion on the theme, “Understanding Border Dynamics in Northeast India –Challenges and Opportunities.”The discussion was held at Rivenburgs Memorial Chapel starting at 3:30 pm with Dr. C.V Lalmslsawmi, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Tetso College, Dimapur, as the moderator. The four panelists were, Dr. UjjalDeka Baruah, Associate Professor, Department of Geography, Cotton University, Kohima, Prof. (Dr.) Pum Khan Pau, Department of History and Archaeology, Nagaland University, Kohima, Pradip Phanjoubam, Senior Editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics (IRAP) and Author and Dr. Ketoukhrie-ü, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Kohima College, Kohima.
DAY 2 (12th June, 2025)
The second day of the national seminar witnessed two plenary sessions, a technical session i.e Technical Session III and the two day National Seminar concluded with a valedictory session.
The Plenary Session I was held at Rivenburgs Memorial Chapel from 9:30 am onwards, on the theme “Nationalism, Statehood and Identity Politics in the Northeast.” The session was chaired by Prof. Tiatoshi Jamir, Assistant Professor, Department of History and Archaeology, Nagaland University, Kohima with three plenary speakers. MmhonlümoKikon, Author and Ex-Minister in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, delivered his lecture on “Decolonising the Dominant Narrative: Indigenous Agency and the Battle of Kohima in His Majesty’s Headhunters.” Dr. Yanbeni Yanthan, Assistant Professor at the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies, Nagaland University, Kohima, presented on, “Between and Betwixt: Naga Folk culture and the Making of Marginal Space.” And Prof. (Dr.) Kedilezo Kikhi, Professor, Department of Sociology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong delivered his lecture through online live video on his paper “Contested Cartographies, Oral Narratives, Linguistic Contours and Indigenous Identities in Northeast (India) Borders.”
Technical Session- III followed immediately after the first plenary session, with parallel sessions in Room Nos. 11 (Offline), 13 and IQAC room (Online) from 11:30 am – 1:00pm.
Report from the technical rooms
Room No. 11
Theme: Inner Line Permit (ILP)/ Representation of Border Issues in Literature and Social Media/ Environmental and Ecological Impact.
The session commenced with a brief introduction of the Chairperson by Ms.Rüülhou-ü Mere, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science. The session was chaired by Dr.Yanbeni Yanthan, Assistant Professor at the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies, Nagaland University, Kohima. The session featured presenters addressing diverse sub-themes based on the major theme. Four papers were presented.
A joint paper by Teisozelhou and Dr.Kuldeep Singh Panwartitled “The Inner Line Permit System in Nagaland: Legal Foundations, Constitutional Implications and Contemporary Challenges” was presented by Teisozelhou. He focused on the legal foundations and constitutional implications, particularly Article 371A and 19. He also addressed contemporary challenges such as migration, economic impact and human rights issues and advocated for a reformed ILP system.
Ena Lyngdoh presented a paper titled “Analysing the Impact of Social media on Tourist Behaviour and Destination Sustainability”, emphasizing the role of social media in influencing tourists behaviour, destination marketing, destination marketing and place perception by amplifying user-generated content, influencer trends and viral travel trends.
Kevingulie Metsieo presented on the topic “Climate – Induced Displacement and Border Tension”, examining how climate change is driving large scale displacement, intensifying border tensions and resource based conflicts.
Vipechalie Belho presented a paper titled “The Inner Line Permit (ILP), Northeast’s Invisible Barrier”, in which he discussed the challenges surrounding the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the need for stricter enforcement and adherence to guideline for effective functioning of the system.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment where participants discussed issues regarding Inner Line Permit (ILP).The Chairperson offered some constructive feedbacks and suggestions to the presenters.
Room No. 13 (Online)
Theme: Free Movement Regime (FMR)
Ms. Setonu, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Baptist College, Kohima welcomed the chair for the session, Mr. MenoseleYhoshü, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Japfü Christian College, Kohima. Four papers were presented.
Leretu Khutsoh presented on the topic “Re-bordering Indo-Myanmar Borderland: State Security, FMR Suspension, and the Displacement of Naga Indigenous Autonomy.”
Dr. Ph Dale Thro presented on “A Naga Perspective on the Free Movement Regime and Border Fencing.”
Dr. LianboiVaiphei presented on “Free Movement Regime: The Politics of Constructing Borders and the Contestation of Belonging.”
Lanchalung Gangmei, Gaanpatrei Kamei & D.Ashunesubmitted a video of their presentation on “Occupational Structure of out-migrant workers of Manipur.”
The session ended with a brief Q&A.
Room : IQAC Room (Online)
Theme: Information and Privacy
The session was chaired by Dr. Hiamthuiyang James, Independent Researcher. The chairperson was introduced by Mrs. Kevino Nagi, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, Baptist College, Kohima.
During the session, four paper presenters shared their research on various topics related to the theme. The names of the presenters, their affiliations, paper titles, and a brief overview of each presentation are provided below
Presenter : Carlos Nongsiej
Research Scholar, Royal School of Law
The Assam Royal Global University
Title: Information and Privacy in Northeast India: Balancing Digital Growth and Indigenous Rights.
The presenter critically examined the intersection of digital growth and privacy concerns in Northeast India, highlighting how irregular data practices and limited digital literacy can lead to the marginalisation and exploitation of vulnerable populations.
The paper noted that while the region is witnessing a digital surge with increased internet and mobile access, this inclusion must not come at the cost of indigenous rights and autonomy. Key challenges discussed included low digital literacy in remote tribal areas, limited awareness of data rights, and weak enforcement of data protection measures.
The presenter emphasised the urgent need for a rights-based approach to digital development—one that respects the autonomy, identity, and consent of indigenous communities
Presenter : Ms. Ibanasara Mylliemngap
Research Scholar
Department of Adult and Continuing Education
North-Eastern Hill University , Shillong
Title : Narcos- Trafficking in Northeast India : Focus on Meghalaya’s Border Dynamics
The presenter examined the growing problem of narco-trafficking in Meghalaya, a border state in Northeast India. The primary objective of the paper was to explore the causes, patterns, and impact of drug trafficking in Meghalaya. It also evaluated existing responses and suggested measures to combat the threat more effectively. Key subtopics discussed included borderland dynamics that facilitate trafficking, governance deficits, socio-economic marginalisation, and evolving transnational crime networks.
Presenters :
Tawnsuanlal Valte
Research Scholar
Department of Sociology
University of Hyderabad
And
Sangmuan Hangsing
Masters in Public Policy
Kautilya School of Public Policy , Hyderabad
(Tawnsuanlal Valte presented on their behalf )
Title : Symbiotic Sovereignties : State and Resistance Among the Transborder Zo People
Focusing on the Zomi community in southern Manipur, the presenter challenges the conventional binary of state versus resistance. Drawing on the concept of ‘Resistance-as-Negotiation,’ the paper introduces the idea of symbiotic sovereignty—a mutual entanglement of state and non-state institutions creates a symbiotic sovereignty, thus resharing the simplistic dualism between authority and resistance. The study offers a fresh perspective on how authority and resistance are interwoven in historically marginal regions, contributing to broader debates on state formation and sovereignty in South Asia
Presenter : Seyievinuo Chuzo
Research Scholar
Department of History
Nagaland University , Kohima
Title : Retelling the Border: Folk Epics and Oral Histories From Northeast India
The presenter focused on how NE India borders are beyond political demarcations but are also deeply rooted cultural landscapes which are being revised and told through area’s many folk epics and orals histories . The presenter also mentioned that folk epics and oral histories are more than just cultural artefacts but also living archives which tell stories about borders and how these stories help to decolonize knowledge in the study of nation , identity and history .
The presenter highlighted challenges such as language barriers, risks of inaccuracy, and institutional difficulties in accessing remote border areas.
Q&A session followed the presentations, making the event both insightful and engaging. The session concluded with closing remarks from the Chair. Overall, it was an informative and successful session.
Plenary Session II was held at the Rivenburgs Memorial Chapel from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM. It was chaired by Dr. Mimi Kevichüsa Ezung, Associate Professor of Linguistics, Department of Tenyidie, Nagaland University, Kohima, and introduced by the rapporteur, Ms. Vesatolu. The session opened with an online live presentation by Dr. Atul Mishra, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of International Relations and Governance Studies at Shiv NadarInstitution of Eminence, Delhi-NCR, presenting a paper titled “De-bordering and Re-ordering: Reconceptualising the Northeast,” in which he proposed alternative frameworks for understanding the region beyond state-centric boundaries. Followed by Dr. Tasongwi Newmei, Assistant Professor at NERIE-NCERT, Shillong, presenting on “Colonial Cartography, State Formation and the Crisis of Territorial Indigeneity Among the Zeliangrong Nagas.” He critically analyzed the colonial legacy of cartography and its implications for indigenous identity and territorial belonging. Following this, both talks were followed by thoughtful feedback from the chair and active questions and answer sessions from the audience.
Valedictory Session
Venue: Rivenburgs Memorial Chapel
The Valedictory Session of the 2 Day National Seminar on “Border Dynamics in Northeast India : Challenges, Opportunities and Policy Imperatives” was held on 12th June, 2025 at 3:30pm in the Rivenburgs MemorialChapel. The session was chaired by Ms. Alito Swu, Assistant Professor, Department of History, who also delivered the opening remarks.
A report on the seminar was presented by Ms. Süvilü Venuh, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Baptist College, Sechü. This was followed by a feedback session where participants were invited to share their reflections on the seminar. While many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend and present their papers, others offered valuable suggestions and recommendations.
The Valedictory Address was delivered by the guest speaker, Dr. Khriezo Yhome, Senior Fellow and Editor with Asian Confluence Shillong, who urged participants to explore “the future of border studies” as a critical area of research, particularly in the context of Northeast India. He highlighted several research agendas that scholars could engage with, including: borderland discourses, renewed securitization discourse, borders and power relations, the idea of trans-border indigenity, and resource frontiers
A special performance was presented by Enibemo W. Kikon, BA 2nd Semester student from the Department of English, Baptist College, Kohima.The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. Kewepfuzu Lohe, Principal, Baptist College, Kohima, followed by the Closing Prayer, which was proposed by Mr. Asilie Riirhia, Assistant Professor, Department of History, Baptist College, Kohima.
The two day national seminar has a total of 50 paper presenters and 40 papers presentation in hybrid mode. Day one witnessed 209 registered attendees and 99 attendees on day two.
Seminar Brochure BCK Seminar Programme
