Nagaland: AR undertakes civic action, veteran welfare, youth initiatives

Assam Rifles carried out a series of activities across Nagaland aimed at fostering community engagement, honouring veterans, and promoting youth development.
MOKOKCHUNG: On December 17, Assam Rifles organised a poster release ceremony for the upcoming 1st Hav Mering Ao, SC Open Badminton Tournament under the Civic Action Programme 2025–26. The tournament is scheduled to be held from January 28 to 31, 2026.
The poster was released by Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) in the presence of around 300 attendees, including NCC students, civil dignitaries, locals, and 50 badminton players.
The event paid tribute to Hav Mering Ao, SC—the oldest living veteran of Assam Rifles—while motivating youth to actively participate in sports.
Senior officers highlighted the role of sports in shaping character, promoting fitness, and fostering unity. It was announced that the tournament will be organised annually to provide young shuttlers a platform to showcase talent and pursue excellence.
In another programme, Assam Rifles commemorated the ex-servicemen silver jubilee celebration in Mokokchung, marking 25 years of unity and service. The event was attended by Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, AVSM, YSM, GOC Spear Corps, along with senior civil and police officials, veterans’ representatives, and community leaders.
Approximately 700 Ex-Servicemen, including Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks, participated. A grievance redressal cell was set up to address concerns, while cultural performances added to the celebration. The event provided a platform for veterans to voice grievances, access welfare assistance, and celebrate collective service and brotherhood.
KOHIMA: The National Integration and Educational Development Organisation (NIEDO) hosted career guidance and motivational sessions for students preparing for NEET and other competitive examinations.
On December 17, Dr Keneilhoulie Medom, managing director and Anaesthesiologist of Kohimas Hospital, interacted with students, sharing insights on discipline, consistency, conceptual clarity, and time management. He emphasised medicine as a service-oriented profession rooted in humility, compassion, and lifelong learning.
Earlier, on December 14, Dr Kezevituo and Toshevi of the Keditsu Foundation conducted a session, followed by an address by Dr. Keduovinuo Keditsu, Cancer Surgeon and Trustee of the Foundation.
Speaking on “A Future in Medicine? Finding Your Path,” she stressed perseverance, clarity of goals, and consistent effort as keys to success.
Both sessions concluded with interactive Q&A discussions, offering students practical guidance on exam preparation, career planning, and resilience in the face of academic challenges.
MELURI & PHEK: On December 21, Assam Rifles personnel donated four units of O positive blood to patients in urgent need of medical attention. In Meluri, two units were provided to Yeedave, a 17-year-old from Akhegwo village suffering from post-partum haemorrhage, helping stabilise her condition. In Phek, two units were donated to Niekhutalu Keyho, a 65-year-old battling blood cancer, offering critical support in her treatment. The selfless act was widely appreciated by families and the local community.
JALUKIE: Under the aegis of Spear Corps, Assam Rifles in collaboration with Pink Blossom Society organised the ‘Rising Star of Jalukie’ English musical talent hunt at Jalukie, Peren district. The event saw 57 participants across two categories—children aged 4–13 and participants above 13 years. Winners were felicitated with gift hampers, musical instruments and cash prizes. The programme promoted youth talent, cultural expression and community engagement.
PEREN: A security meeting was convened at Heningkunglwa village with Gaon Buras, village chairmen and Civil Society Organisation representatives. Fifteen community leaders participated in discussions on peace, security and developmental aspirations.
Assam Rifles emphasised preventive measures, information sharing and civil-military cooperation to foster unity and discourage unlawful activities.
PUNGRO: Assam Rifles extended support for the successful conduct of the Saramati Soccer Championship 2025 at Pungro sub-division, Kiphire. The tournament, held under the theme “Together, We Take the Game Forward”, concluded with a final match between Pungro and Phokiu villages. Seven teams competed, with Assam Rifles providing ground preparation, refreshments and administrative assistance.
NOKLAK: On December 18, Assam Rifles organised an ex-servicemen felicitation ceremony at Noklak as part of advent Christmas celebrations. The event honoured the sacrifice and service of veterans, with 40 ex-servicemen attended the programme. Welfare measures and resettlement opportunities were highlighted.