Nagaland governor hosted ‘At Home’ reception and Governor’s Award ceremony on the occasion of Republic Day at Durbar Hall Raj Bhavan here Monday. Speaking at the programme, Acharya appealed to the state government to identify “hidden talents” in the fields of arts, literature, culture, music, sports, crafts and even those who inherited indigenous medicine and award them.
He congratulated the awardees Vetahülü Sapu and Lamtsala H. Sangtam for their contribution in the field of music. He also appealed to the people, especially the youth, to follow the path of the today’s awardees. The awardees received certificate, memento, shawl and a cheque of Rs. 1 lakh. Further, Acharya asserted today was the historic day in Indian history as two major powers of world, India and Unites States, met in Delhi on the occasion of Republic Day and discussed many issues and agreement on major deals.
In his brief address, chief minister T. R. Zeliang congratulated the awardees Vetahulu Sapu and Lamtsala Sangtam for their contributions in the field of music and bringing laurels to the Naga society.
He also congratulated the state level committee headed by the chief secretary who selected the two from amongst 21 nominees sent by various district level committees.
Zeliang appealed to the award winners to continue their efforts and contribute more to the society. Commissioner and secy. Art & Culture Tourism Himato, in his opening remark, stressed on the need to preserve Naga culture and urged the past and current awardees to be the torch bearers for the future generation. Delivering vote of thanks, chief secretary C. J. Ponraj said the occasion for the first time deviated from the conventional practice of inviting high officials to the ‘At Home’ reception by extending invitations to the lowest strata of the society like the service providers: luggage carries and stone spitting labourers.
Methaneilie Jütakhrie, recipient of Governor’s Award 2003 (music), enthralled the gathering by belting out Nagamese and Hindi songs. Hosts of ministers, parl secys., CLP Leader Tokheho Yepthomi, NPCC president S.I Jamir, Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio, MLA Kaito, MLAs, NPF president Dr. Shurhozelie, members of the Armed Forces, officials and others attended the reception.
Friday, February 20, 2026