Correspondent
KOHIMA, MAY 16 (NPN): The newly constructed Community Hall of the Chathe Valley Land Owners Union (CVLOU) under Tsüüma Village jurisdiction was inaugurated by OSD, Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Roko Angami during a programme held on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, Angami described the inauguration of the community hall as a moment of immense joy and pride for the community, stating that the project had long been a cherished dream of the people.
He said a community hall was far more than just a physical structure made of bricks and mortar, but represented the heart of the collective spirit and unity of the people. According to him, the hall would serve as a place where the community could gather to celebrate important occasions, deliberate on matters of common concern, resolve challenges, and support one another during difficult times.
Angami stated that the hall belonged to every member of the community and had been constructed with the purpose of strengthening communal bonds and fostering a deeper sense of togetherness. He expressed hope that the hall would become a place where the youth could learn and grow, elders could pass on their wisdom and stories, and traditional values and customs could continue to flourish.
Referring to issues concerning settlement and land ownership, Angami said it was contrary to Naga customs and traditions to prevent a person from settling down after lawfully purchasing land with the intention of establishing and developing a livelihood. He maintained that such actions went against the principles of humanity, fairness, and the long-standing traditions upheld by their forefathers.
On the occasion, he conveyed gratitude to all those who contributed towards the successful completion of the community hall, including community leaders, the planning committee, construction workers, donors, and every individual who had extended support, resources, and dedication throughout the process.
He stated that the hall stood as a testament to what could be achieved when a community worked together with unity, determination, and a common vision. However, he pointed out that while the structure had now been completed, the responsibility of keeping it alive and meaningful rested with the community members themselves.
Angami urged the people to make meaningful use of the facility, care for it collectively, and ensure that it remained a place filled with harmony, warmth, and the vibrant spirit of the community. He also called upon the people to maintain the hall as a clean, welcoming, and vibrant space for the benefit and welfare of all.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by CVLOU chairman, Kekhrungol Vitsu, while the invocation was pronounced by pastor of Tsüüma Baptist Church, Keneingutuo Terhüja. Greetings were delivered by VCC Tsüüma Village, Visierlie Meyase.
The secretary’s report was presented by Rukuzo Hoshi, the treasurer’s report by Meyiesul Thaprü, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Vitovol Zhotso.