Independence Day celebrated with patriotic fervour in Dimapur

Along with the entire country, Dimapur celebrated the 76th Independence Day with patriotic fervour at Dimapur District Sport Complex (DDSC) Stadium on Monday.
Delivering speech on the occasion, advisor for power, H Tovihoto Ayemi, stated 75 years in the history of a nation was an important milestone, adding that Nagaland has also, along with rest of the country, made progress.
Ever since the State was inaugurated in 1963, the advisor said successive governments have contributed towards development efforts. Resultantly, he said there was a significant improvement in lives of Nagas, but Nagas remained mindful of the unresolved issues.
Speaking on the ongoing Naga political issue, Ayemi said that Nagas have been waiting patiently and expectantly for a final solution to the Naga Political Issue.
He said that Naga people wanted early, inclusive, honourable and acceptable solution.
Advisor said that all the elected representatives have also come together and affirmed that they would make way once Solution was reached.
Speaking on the achievements of power department, the advisor noted that the state was consistently moving towards ensuring stable power supply throughout the State with the power department taking up and completing construction of several substations.
He informed that department of power was taking up three hydro projects—Lower Tizu Hydro Electricity Project (42 MW), Zungki Hydro Electricity Project (24 MW) and Tizu Valley (24 MW)—
as part of Externally Aided Projects through Asian Development Bank.
Advisor said that issues connected with 186 MW Hydro Electricity Project at Dikhu were also getting resolved.
Once the projects come up, he said Nagaland would be self-sufficient in electricity power supply and also greatly reduce burden of power purchase in the State. Further, Ayemi informed that presently work was in progress for small Hydro project at Diliumroi (2.4 MW) while the Ponglefo project would be commissioned very soon.
He said that the department was also aiming for reduction of AT&C losses and increase in revenue collection by installation of prepaid meters in Dimapur and Kohima.
Advisor informed that the first major solar power plant with a capacity of 5 MW was coming up at Hovukhu Village under Niuland, which was expected to be completed within this financial year.
Ending his speech, advisor called upon every citizen to rededicate oneself to continue working for making Nagaland as one of the most developed and progressive states in the county.
On the occasion, advisor for power unfurled the tricolour and took Rashtriya salute from parade contingents before addressing the gathering.
Earlier, the commissioner of police Dimapur, Rothihu Tetseo reviewed the parade. 16 parade contingents led by ACP, Johnny M Patton as parade commander.
Other highlights of the programme included patriotic song by students of SD Jain Higher Secondary School, choreography by Livingstone foundation International School, dance by Nritya Academy of Dace and Arts and cultural presentation by Garo Cultural Group and Kachari Cultural troupe.
It may be mentioned during the celebration a helicopter with national flag from the Spear Corps Rangapahar flew over the venue.