First and foremost, I lift my heart in thanksgiving to Almighty God. It is only by His grace and unfailing love that we have completed the tenure of 2020–2025. As Psalm127:1 states: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.”. Truly, without His hand guiding us, we could not have reached this day.
Today, we are gathered to witness not just an installation, but a turning point. Having crossed 75 years of service, the Naga Council Dimapur has now stepped into a century era — a new chapter that calls for introspection, reformation, and renewal. The future demands that we strengthen our systems, refine our functioning, and uphold the highest standards of inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability.
This day is therefore not merely ceremonial; it is symbolic of a fresh beginning. With the Installation and Oath-Taking of the newly selected and nominated Councillors for the tenure 2025–2030, drawn from our affiliated tribal bodies and civil society organizations of Dimapur, we set in motion the next phase of our collective journey. These Councillors carry with them the hopes, trust, and confidence of the people, and it is our duty to support them in building upon the legacy of NCD while steering it toward greater heights.
Introduction:
The Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) is a vital organization that came into being in 1949, at a time when the growing population of Nagas and other diverse communities in Dimapur called for unity, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence. Its founding purpose was clear: to uphold the unity of the Nagas, while also fostering understanding and harmony among the many communities living in Dimapur.
Since its inception, NCD has been recognized as a legitimate and respected body — a non-governmental, non-political organization dedicated to promoting justice and fairness among citizens.
Over the decades, it has played a vital role in assisting the local administration and police in maintaining law and order, safeguarding human rights, and upholding peace and harmony not only in Dimapur, but also more broadly across Nagaland. For this, the Council’s invaluable service has been widely appreciated by all sections of society, including the public, local administration, and lawmakers.
Today, NCD stands as a leading umbrella organization with 20 affiliated tribal Hohos/Unions — comprising 16 tribes from Nagaland and 4 from South Nagas — along with 4 prominent Dimapur-based civil society organizations (CSOs): NWHD, DNSU, GB Union Dimapur (Sadar), and DUCCF.
Traditionally, the Nagas have enjoyed unwavering support and cooperation across tribes and communities, regardless of origin. This spirit of togetherness has been symbolized and sustained through the noble service and activities of the Naga Council Dimapur, which proudly upholds its guiding motto – ‘ALL IN ONE.’ Unity is not only our strength but also our heritage – one that has enabled us to remain steadfast through both sunshine and storms.
This identity was most vividly demonstrated during the Platinum Jubilee celebration of NCD on November 2, 2024, under the theme ‘Celebration of Naga Unity.’ That historic occasion served as a living reminder of our collective strength, cultural pride, and the unbreakable bonds that define us as one people.
Visible achievements during 2020 – 2025 tenure:
- Management and Adoption of a Systematic Burial System: During the sudden surge of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Council, with collective wisdom and urgency, adopted a systematic burial system at the New Naga Cemetery, Zani Area, Dimapur. This ensured the judicious utilization of available space even in the midst of crisis, providing dignity in death and relief to grieving families at a time of great distress.
- Representation in District Planning and Development Board: In recognition of the role and responsibility of the Naga Council Dimapur, the State Government of Nagaland was gracious enough to induct the NCD President as a co-opted Member of the District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) of Dimapur District. This inclusion is a testament to the Council’s elevating greater height of its status.
- Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Naga Council Dimapur: As President, it was my privilege to organize the Grand 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Naga Council Dimapur under the theme “Celebrating Naga Unity.” This was not only an auspicious occasion but also a truly historic milestone in the life of the Council. The celebration was graced by the presence of nearly four thousand people, representing both tribal and non-tribal communities. The event was further enriched by cultural presentations from our affiliated tribal communities, showcasing the beauty of our diversity and the strength of our unity. Indeed, it was a moment where the spirit of togetherness shone brightly, and the legacy of the Naga Council Dimapur was honored in its full dignity.
- Blessing of the 75th Anniversary & Expansion of New Naga Cemetery: It was indeed a great blessing for the people of Dimapur that on the 2nd of November 2024, the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Naga Council Dimapur was graced by none other than Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland. In his address, the Hon’ble Chief Minister not only honored the legacy of the Council, but also made a historic commitment — to acquire land for the extension of the New Naga Cemetery at Zani Area. True to his word, the Government fulfilled this commitment, and today, 8 Bighas of land has been acquired and handed over to the Naga Council Dimapur through the District
Administration for its care, maintenance, and the welfare of the people. This remains a landmark achievement of our tenure, a gift of service and remembrance for generations to come. - Sanction of Funds for Naga Council Office Building: With the gracious concern and efforts of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, the State Government has approved a budget of `5.00 crores under the Scheme NESIDS – OTRI during 2025–2026 for the construction of a new Naga Council Office building at Dimapur. This is a milestone achievement, as it will provide the Council with a permanent institution worthy of its history, its service, and its vision for the future.
- Commitment for World-Class Sports & Development of Dimapur: For the benefit of public utility and especially for our sports enthusiasts, the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, also graciously committed to the development of the Dimapur District Sports Council Stadium (DDSCS) into a world-class stadium. Alongside this, he also assured the overall development of Dimapur District, initiatives which are already in the pipe line. This vision, once realized, will not only uplift the sporting culture of Dimapur but also transform the district into a hub of growth and opportunity for future generations.
Issues and challenges ahead:
Yet, even as we celebrate achievements, we must also recognize the challenges that lie before us. Dimapur continues to grow in complexity, with pressing issues of governance, urbanization, public welfare, and cultural preservation. The responsibility of the new Council will be to confront these challenges with courage, foresight, and unity — keeping the welfare of the people as its highest priority. - Indo–Naga Political Issue: One of the foremost challenges before us remains the Indo–Naga Political Issue — not merely a political question, but one tied to our history, identity, and future. Until a just and honorable settlement is achieved, our journey as a people will remain incomplete. Though not a negotiating body, the Naga Council Dimapur must continue its role as the people’s voice and pressure group — reminding all stakeholders that Naga aspirations cannot be compromised and that true peace must rest on justice. The Council must stand firm, support civil society, and act as a bridge of dialogue and understanding in this most sensitive matter.
- The Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act of 1989, though rooted in noble intentions, has after more than three decades become one of the most debated issues in our society. Its uneven implementation has created practical difficulties and unintended consequences that affect public health, the economy, governance, and above all, the wellbeing of our youth. The Naga Council Dimapur recognizes that this is more than just a legal matter — it is a moral and social question of deep significance. With growing calls for a review, and even repeal, the Council must engage responsibly with the government, civil society, churches, and the wider public to seek a way forward that protects our values while responding to the realities of our time.
(To be concluded)
Etsungmomo Kikon
Outgoing President, NCD