(From previous issued)
- The development of Dimapur Railway Station into a world-class railway hub is another pressing challenge and aspiration for our people. Dimapur is not only the gateway of Nagaland but also the lifeline of trade, commerce, and connectivity for the entire region. A modern, world-class railway station would not only ease the hardships of passengers but also stimulate economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the image of Dimapur as a progressive city. It is the responsibility of the Naga Council Dimapur to consistently raise this issue with the concerned authorities, ensuring that this long-standing demand is not neglected, and to see that the people of Dimapur receive the facilities they rightfully deserve.
- The issue of the Inner Line Permit and Illegal Immigration is also a pressing concern and in this regard, the NCD has already submitted recommendations to the government, and it must continue to engage in dialogue to uphold the present interests and aspirations of the Naga people so that Naga integrity and identity must be safeguarded and never compromised by illegal immigrants or external forces.
- In addition, there are numerous other areas of development for which the Naga Council Dimapur has already submitted detailed recommendations to the government. These proposals & recommendations cannot remain as mere documents; they must not be overlooked but actively pursued, followed up, and implemented with sincerity. Sustained engagement, continuous dialogue with the authorities, and persistent follow-up are therefore essential if these developmental concerns are to be addressed effectively and in a timely manner.
VISION FORWARD:
As I hand over this responsibility, I do so with great hope and confidence that the Naga Council Dimapur will continue to remain a true and impartial guardian of the people’s trust and our heritage, a voice of our people, a custodian of unity, and a beacon of service for generations to come.
It must never be swayed by external pressures or personal interests. The Naga Council Dimapur shall not only safeguard the distinct identity of the Nagas but also nurture harmony and mutual respect among all who call Dimapur home. This dual responsibility — to preserve heritage while fostering inclusivity — is the cornerstone of unity, progress, and collective dignity.
A. Preserving NCD Assets and Properties:
The assets and properties of the Naga Council Dimapur – which include land, buildings, and all physical holdings – are the collective inheritance of our people. They are the living symbols which represent the sacrifices of our pioneers, the trust of our citizens, and the foundation upon which our cultural identity stand.
It is therefore, the solemn duty of the Council, its members, and the community at large to preserve and safeguard these assets with the highest level of integrity. These holdings must remain forever dedicated to the welfare of the public, and to the showcasing of the rich traditions and diverse cultures of the Nagas. They are to serve as spaces where our heritage is celebrated, our unity is strengthened, and our identity is passed on to future generations.
We must be vigilant that under no circumstances should these collective properties be reduced to personal or private assets or be misused for personal gain. To do so would not only weaken the moral fabric of the Council, but also rob the future generations of their rightful inheritance of tradition, culture, and pride. Such an act would amount to the erosion of our very identity as a people.
Therefore, let this be reaffirmed today: that every piece of land, every building, every asset belonging to the Naga Council Dimapur is sacred in its purpose – to serve the community, to protect the dignity of our people, and to preserve the cultural heritage of the Nagas for generations yet unborn.
B. Partnership with Authorities and Civil Society:
The Naga Council Dimapur is not a developmental agency but a guardian of public welfare and a voice of collective conscience. Its role is to assist and cooperate with the law enforcing agencies and the district administration in safeguarding peace, order, and justice, always working for the wellbeing of the public.
One of the greatest strengths of the Naga Council Dimapur has been its deep-rooted relationship and cooperation with the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Dimapur. This enduring bond has created a congenial atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, enabling the Council to work hand-in-hand with CSOs in addressing important matters and issues of public interest. This partnership stands as a true asset of the NCD, a reminder that collective wisdom and cooperation are essential in serving the greater good of the people.
LOOKING BACK WITH GRATITUDE:
Now as I reflect on the past five years of stewardship, I am humbled by the journey we have walked together. Through seasons of trials and triumphs, the Naga Council Dimapur has sought to uphold not only its identity and integrity, but also the sacred calling to serve our people with unity and sincerity.
To my fellow Councillors, the Executive team, the affiliated Tribal Hohos, Unions, Presidents & Chairmans, elders and well-wishers— I offer my deepest gratitude for supporting me in this journey of leadership. The journey was not without difficulties, but it was made possible because of your trust, cooperation, and solidarity. Though we come from different tribes and traditions, our roots are entwined and the strength and endurance of the Naga Council has been possible only because of our unity. Leadership, therefore, I believe is not about privilege, but about service. As Christ Himself declared, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). This has been my guiding principle, my prayer and effort to live out that calling, however imperfectly, in the course of this tenure.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
And as I stand here today as the outgoing president, I must place on record my heartfelt gratitude to the Nominating Committee, ably headed by Shri Hokuto Zhimomi, former Hon’ble Councillor.
The nomination process was not an easy time for any of us. It demanded patience, dialogue, diligence, fairness and endurance from all quarters. Yet, through this process, the integrity of the Council has been safeguarded by choosing the best among the best representatives who carry with them the confidence of their people and the responsibility to serve with honor.
Your service has ensured that this Council is entrusted into worthy hands, and the solemn oath taken today stands as a testimony to your careful and prayerful selection. For this, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Nominating Committee, the tribal hohos, the unions, and all who contributed to this difficult yet meaningful exercise. It is my firm belief that the new Council will rise to the occasion, upholding the values of unity, justice, and service to all citizens of Dimapur.
CHARGE TO THE NEW COUNCIL (2025–2030):
To the newly selected Councillors taking oath today, I extend my warmest congratulations. This moment is not only a recognition of your abilities, but also a call to higher service. The community places its faith in you to uphold fairness, promote unity, and work tirelessly for the welfare of all. Today you inherit not just seats, but a sacred responsibility, a noble responsibility that transcends politics or position.
Leadership is a covenant of trust with the people you represent. One that demands not only leadership but also humility, wisdom, and unity.
Remember always that the Council exists not for individuals, but for the people. Serve them with honesty, listen to their voices, and stand firm for what is just and righteous. The people’s expectations are high, and rightly so.
May your service be like the torch of our ancestors — not burning for oneself, but lighting the path for every citizen. May you continue to uphold the vision and spirit of the Naga Council Dimapur and not only preserve the assets, values, and traditions entrusted to you, but also build upon them with vision and courage, so that future generations may look back with gratitude and bless your leadership.
Let this Council be more than an institution — let it be a fellowship of mutual support. A place where unity triumphs over division, where the common good rises above personal gain, and where every decision is guided by truth and integrity.
CONCLUSION:
As I conclude, I express my deepest gratitude once more to all who walked alongside me in this journey. I leave with no regrets, only the hope that the foundation laid during my tenure will serve as a stepping stone for greater achievements in the years ahead. May Almighty God bless the Incoming Councillors with wisdom from above, may He strengthen your hands for the tasks ahead, and may His peace dwell richly in your hearts.
Let us remember the promise of Isaiah: “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles” (Isaiah 40:31). May this Council soar — rooted in faith, guided by culture, and driven by unity.
God Bless the Naga Council Dimapur.
K U K N A L I M
(concluded)
Etsungmomo Kikon
Outgoing President.