Monday, August 15 2005 19:23 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kohima: Replacing the Ashoka insignia, Nagaland from today (Aug 15, 2005) adopted a new state logo depicting a majestic 'mithun' or bison in the centre with 'Government of Nagaland' written at the bottom.

Earlier the state Cabinet had approved another logo, but the Government decided to accept a fresh model replacing certain naga motifs on the previous one after opposition Congress criticised the symbol asserting that it was not representing Naga ethos and identity.

It was more like a logo of students' union of a college, the party said.

The new logo found its place on the cover page of the chief minister's Independence Day speech delivered at the main function held amidst inclement weather at state civil secretariat ground this morning.

Announcing the adoption of the new state logo, chief minister Neiphiu Rio said the word 'unity', put on the top of the circle around the 'mithun' represented the binding force and the "dreams and aspirations of the Nagas."

The 'mithun' represents health, wealth, strength, stability and prosperity, the chief minister said.

The Government had earlier clarified that like in other states, the option has been kept open to use Ashoka insignia by the state whenever necessary.