“Chen Village”, the first recognised Konyak village outside Mon district, was inaugurated at Dhansiripar, Chumoukedima district on Tuesday.
The village was officially inaugurated by advisor of Industries and Commence, Hekani Jakhalu with the unveiling of the monolith after a dedicatory prayer by Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) former general secretary Rev. Dr Pongsing Konyak.
The land for establishing the village, with a total area approximately around 140 acres, according to a 2015 survey, was purchased from Ihevi, a retired IFS officer and resident of Pimla, at an affordable rate.
The village has over 200 registered households and managed by four Gaon Buras (GBs), 18 Village Council Members (VCMs), and a 17-member Village Development Board (VDB) Management Committee. The village was recognized by government of Nagaland on February 15, 2024, making it the only recognized Konyak village in the western part of Nagaland.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Hekani congratulated the villagers, council members, and GBs on the establishment of the new village, describing it as the “newest baby” born in the region. She encouraged the villagers to prioritize a development plan, for the growth of the community.
She also encouraged the community to plant more trees and flowers, aspiring for the village to become a model for others.
Hekani also stressed the importance of preserving the cultural heritage that has been passed down by forefathers, especially traditional practices such as handicrafts, handloom, and farming. She however cautioned against becoming complacent and reminded everyone that coming to Dimapur area should not lead to a loss of foundational values or motivation.
She affirmed her belief in the capabilities of the Konyak people, describing them as smart and sharp, with unique God-given talents that should be nurtured. As the village fall under Dimapur-3 Assembly constituency, Hekani who is the MLA from the constituency, committed to contribute resources to the village development.
Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards, C.L. John expressed gratitude to everyone for their contribution in the establishment of Chen village. He thanked also thanked the council of ministers and chief minister, Neiphiu Rio for their support to recognize the village.
He highlighted the unique position of the Konyak people, who are located near the Myanmar border and mentioned that from 2000 onwards that they began moving toward settling in town areas, as prior to this, they had no permanent settlements in these regions. This transition marks an important step in the region’s development and in the integration of the Konyak people into more permanent and structured communities, he added.
Short speeches were also delivered by Deputy Commissioner, Chumoukedima Polan John, SDO (civil) Dhansiripar Vejoyo Swuro and head GBs of the neighbouring villages.
At the programme, invocation prayer was proposed by KBBD, pastor Rev. M. Tonlong, welcome address was delivered by Chen village chairman K. Yamao Konyak.
Cultural dances were presented by Moka Cultural Troupe Dimapur (male) and Wakching Area Union Dimapur (female) and special song by Chen Village Youth.
Vote of thanks was delivered by Chennai village VDB secretary Dr. W. Phola Konyak and benediction by KBBC pastor Rev. S. Yoko.