Nagaland: Christmas a time to renew commitment to service, says Deputy CM Patton

The Wokha District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) Wokha held its monthly meeting-cum-Pre-Christmas celebration on December 18 at Hammock Resort, New Wokha Village. The meeting was chaired by deputy chief minister and Wokha DPDB Chairman, Yanthungo Patton, along with deputy commissioner Vineet Kumar, IAS.
During the meeting, the Board reviewed the minutes of the previous session and deliberated on key developmental issues, including the status of road connectivity under the Baghty Division and the progress of works under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). The deputy chief minister directed the concerned department to submit a detailed report on the work progress at the earliest.
Following the meeting, a Pre-Christmas celebration was held, chaired by District Public Relations Officer (DPRO) Lolano Patton.
In his Christmas message, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton reflected on the true spirit of the season—emphasizing togetherness, compassion, love, and hope.
He reminded all present that Christmas is not merely a festive occasion but a time to renew our commitment to service, humility, and shared humanity.
He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the organizers of the event and extended gratitude to all Heads of Departments (HoDs) for their continued cooperation and dedication toward the development of Wokha district.
He further assured that even after his tenure as DPDB Chairman, he would remain actively engaged with the district’s progress and continue to visit departments to encourage regular attendance and accountability. “Chair or no chair, my commitment to the welfare of our people remains unchanged,” he affirmed.
The Christmas message was delivered by Fr. Stephen Chazhasseril, principal of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Wokha. Drawing from the birth of Jesus Christ, he spoke about the transformative power of humility, peace, and sacrificial love, urging everyone to embody these values in their personal and public lives.
Deputy commissioner Vineet Kumar, also addressed the gathering, expressing appreciation to the deputy chief minister, MLAs, officers, and HoDs for their unwavering support and collaborative spirit throughout the year.
The celebration featured a special presentation by youth resources officer Y. Libemo Jami, followed by a joyful exchange of gifts among HoDs. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by district planning officer Y. Orenbomo Lotha.
The highlight of the celebration was the ceremonial cutting of the Christmas cake by deputy chief minister Yanthungo Patton, marking a moment of unity and festive cheer among the district’s administrative fraternity.