DMC marks councillors’ first anniversary

Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) on Saturday held a thanksgiving service at its office in Forest Colony to commemorate the first anniversary of its councillors.
The programme was chaired by DMC deputy chairperson Imlinaro Stephanie Ezung and began with a prayer by councillor Nampiebeu Zeliang. The anniversary marked one year since the councillors took oath on July 5, 2024, at the DC Conference Hall.
DMC chairperson Hukheto Yepthomi, in his address, said the first year was challenging, but the Council emerged stronger. He said DMC had held around 10–11 board meetings and interacted with various civil society organisations, departments and stakeholders.
He highlighted the Council’s achievements such as drainage construction in 7–8 wards, road repairs in 8–9 wards, sanitation work, and implementation of Finance Commission suggestions. A mass cleaning drive was also carried out in June to mark World Environment Day.
Yepthomi said a drainage master plan for Dimapur is underway and thanked Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the councillors for supporting the relocation of the DMC office to its current location.
Representing the councillors, Ward 3 Councillor I. Sentnuklu Jamir said many councillors were serving for the first time but had worked sincerely despite constraints. He encouraged his peers to adopt the motto “work is worship” and called on the Council to be a model for other urban local bodies.
Rev. K. Thenjamo Tsanglao, associate pastor of Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur, shared a message from the Bible, stressing the need for integrity in public service. He reminded councillors that leadership is a divine calling and urged them to uphold righteousness and accountability.
DMC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Thungchanbemo Tungoe thanked the councillors and staff for their support and commitment. He said the team’s unity and collaboration were its greatest strengths. Referring to the Council’s journey as an “arranged marriage,” he said it was built on mutual respect, learning and shared purpose.
Tungoe listed key achievements such as the relocation of the office, digitization of trade licenses, market regulation, and waste management efforts. He acknowledged financial limitations but praised councillors for hands-on dedication, especially in sanitation and beautification.
He also explained the DMC’s role as an Urban Local Body under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act and encouraged councillors to exercise their powers responsibly without over-relying on external bodies.
The event featured a musical performance by staff member G. Mohan Rao and concluded with mass prayer and lunch.