Wokha district celebrated its golden jubilee on the theme “50 Years of Renewal and Transformation” at the public ground, Wokha town on December 21, with deputy chief minister, Y Patton as the chief guest. Patton was accompanied by advisor agriculture Mhathung Yanthan and legislators– Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe and Achumbemo Kikon.
Speaking at the programme, deputy chief minister Y Patton acknowledged the sacrifices of pioneers and visionary leaders in creating the district. He also expressed gratitude to the general public for their unwavering support and stressed the need for peace and unity.
The deputy chief minister encouraged the district officers to prioritise the well-being of the people and submit development proposals to the government. He assured full cooperation from the government.
Patton also advised the deputy commissioner ensure regular attendance of government employees in the district. Stating that there was unprecedented unity among the four legislators of the district, Patton said the four Lotha legislators have been united like never before and stressed the importance of maintaining such unity.
On the significance of clean elections, he urged the citizens to adhere to a clean elections policy and sincerely vote for deserving leaders.
Calling for introspection and positive changes in various aspects of life, Patton urged the people to reflect on their lives and actively pursue positive transformations.
Also, speaking at the programme, advisor Mhathung Yanthan emphasised on the significance of the 50th anniversary and stressed the need for a collective effort towards a future filled with optimism and promise. Presenting the ideas and strategies to boost the district’s economic activity, Yanthan said there was a need to focus on high-quality education and promoting holistic development beyond academics.
He stated that children need to be empowered with skills and knowledge so as to enable them to contribute to society.
Dwelling on the jubilee theme, Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA, urged the gathering to reflect on the Lothas’ lifestyle. He also stressed the need for constructive criticism and discussing shortcomings for positive societal changes.
Humtsoe said jubilee was a day of celebration and a platform for addressing societal issues. He urged individuals to prioritize societal welfare over personal interests recognizing that a thriving society inherently leads to positive changes in personal lives.
In his speech, Achumbemo Kikon, MLA, conveyed jubilee greetings to the audience and also extended greetings to Phek district, which is also celebrating 50 years of district. He encouraged the people to engage in positive deeds for a beneficial return. Kikon also appealed for the reinstatement of a lost seat due to the 1974 delimitation. He encouraged everyone to engage in positive deeds for the betterment of society.
In his brief address, Lotha Hoho chairman Mhondamo Ovung addressed the theme of growth, emphasizing that jubilee symbolizes progress. He urged the implementation of more efficient and constructive working systems. Drawing inspiration from Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote, he articulated that pardoning the bad can detrimentally affect the good.
Short speeches were also delivered by former legislator S.S. Ezung and and Lotha Officers’ Association president K. Libathung Lotha.
A moment of silence was also observed for the past leaders who contributed to the growth of the district.
Earlier, the chief guest unveiled the jubilee monolith at the new DC office compound, Wokha.
The invocation was delivered by Rev Shan Kikon, welcome address by DC Wokha Ajit Kumar Ranjan. Special prayer for Wokha district was offered by M. Rhonbemo.
Highlights of the programme included folk songs by Senthan Cultural Group, Lotsu Cultural Group, and Golaghat Cultural Group while special number was presented by Thunglamo Ngullie and Zareni C Kithan. The programme was chaired by Dr. N Janbemo Humtsoe while vote of thanks was delivered by SDO (C)l Wokha Nuhuta Tunyi.