Sumi Officers Union Dimapur (SOUD) celebrated its silver jubilee on November 26, 2016 at North East Agri Expo Site, 4th Mile, Dimapur with minister of PWD (R&B), Y. Vikheho Swu as chief guest. SOUD was founded in 1991 with a common desire to co-ordinate and share social responsibilities among the Sumi officers serving or residing in Dimapur town.
Speaking on the occasion, Vikheho Swu lauded the union for discouraging the VIP gift culture and urged the officers to utilise their position to lead the society with examples.
He said Sumis were fortunate to be present in several districts across state, but maintained that they have huge responsibilities to shoulder to achieve social and political aspiration of the Nagas in general.
Highlighting the ‘Act East’ policy of the Centre, the minister said that a National Highway has been approved to pass through Central Nagaland connecting the Eastern Corridors. He said this initiative by the Centre would generate massive socio-economic opportunities for the Nagas. For that, he said the officers should have long term vision to educate the people.
The chief guest also emphasised on the need for clean election that would pave way for overall progress of the Naga society.
The silver jubilee programme, chaired by SOUD president, Er.Ghukhui Zhimomi, was attended by a host of dignitaries including parliamentary secretary law &justice and SIRD, Er. Picto; Tovihoto Ayemi, MLA & Chairman, NIDC Ltd.
Earlier, Jubilee blessings were invoked by Rev. Yehevi Jimo, Sr. Pastor, TBC, Rev.Hevukhu Achumi, ES.WSBAK, Rev.S.Vitoshe Swu, Sr.Pastor, DSBC & Rev.S.Luhevi Jimo, Sr.Pastor.UV,SBC.
Short speeches were delivered by Hocto Sema, IFS (Rtd); H.K Khulu, IAS (Rtd) & Luzhevi. Special numbers were presented by Sumi Baptist Church Diphupar-B Choir, Nagagenous and Er.Shikato Shohe and friends. Vote of thanks was proposed by Zuvito Wotsa ex member of SOUD.