J. Alam bids farewell; welcomes Sentiyanger as CS

Outgoing Chief Secretary J. Alam (IAS) was accorded a fond farewell at an official programme at the Secretariat Office Complex here Thursday where he also officially handed over the reins to incoming successor , additional chief secretary and finance commissioner Sentiyanger Imchen, reports DIPR.
In his farewell speech Alam, who retired on July 31, expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling the event a celebration of shared remembrance and professional camaraderie.
He reflected on Nagaland as his home, calling and enduring inspiration, and praised the state’s terrain, culture and people for shaping him both as a civil servant and individual.
Alam also reflected on his three-and-a-half-year tenure as chief secretary, which began on January 29, 2021. He recalled challenging moments, from steering the state through the COVID-19 pandemic to developing roadmaps for climate resilience, agricultural transformation and digital governance. He said each obstacle offered lessons, while each achievement delivered meaningful rewards through collective effort.
Emphasising that his legacy lies not in signed files or meetings held, Alam said it is measured by the positive change he helped bring to Nagaland. He expressed confidence that his successors will uphold the state’s progress and urged officials to stay inspired and committed to serving the people.
He reminded them that public service demands firmness in adversity, calm in crisis and graciousness in unacknowledged efforts.
Alam also acknowledged the media’s role in shaping public understanding and contributing to a prosperous society. The ceremony was attended by senior officials and heads, highlighting respect.
Incoming Chief Secretary, Sentiyanger Imchen IAS, Additional Chief Secretary and Finance Commissioner spoke on his behalf and on behalf of the state government where shared about his acquaintance with outgoing Chief Secretary J. Alam.
The incoming chief secretary Sentiyanger recounted their journey together starting at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie and decades-long camaraderie.
Imchen highlighted Alam’s transformative tenure, noting his efforts to expedite pension sanctions before retirement and launch the Nagaland Solar Mission and Nagaland Skill Mission to advance renewable energy and youth employability. He praised Alam’s impact on administrative reform and citizen welfare, and expressed gratitude to his wife for her unwavering support throughout his service.
In conclusion, Sentiyanger Imchen lauded Dr. J. Alam’s leadership as Nagaland Chief Secretary, noting his pivotal roles in state and central government. He expressed hope Alam finds opportunities to continue serving India.
Also speaking on the occasion, principal secretary Y. Kikheto Sema praised outgoing Chief Secretary Dr. J. Alam and described his as a responsible administrator who functioned with admirable clarity and order.
He added that his systematic way of working was always prompt, always responsive; never leaving a file unattended or a task incomplete was truly commendable.
He added that Nagaland’s stability during Alam’s nearly five-year tenure reflected the latter’s foresight and steady leadership.
Representatives of various service associations, DGP Rupin Sharma and CAWD Assistant Chief Engineer Er Sungtiba Amer spoke.
Home Commissioner Anoop Khinchi delivered the vote of thanks, while State Chaplain Rev. Izieteilung Tering invoked blessings. Attendees included AHODs, HODs, senior officials, family members.
Dr. J. Alam, who joined the IAS in 1991 and was allotted to Nagaland cadre, served in sub-divisional posts in Phek and Mon and as Deputy Commissioner of Tuensang for three years. He later served as Additional Secretary Finance and Secretary of Industries, Commerce & Sericulture.