Nagaland hosts first Science & Technology awards

The State Level Celebration of National Science Day was held at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, under the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat.” The event, commemorating the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman, also witnessed the first-ever Nagaland Science & Technology Award Ceremony under the Nagaland Science Mission, an initiative launched in FY 2024–25 to promote scientific development in the state.
Delivering the keynote address, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology, I. Himato Zhimomi, said the awards marked the first recognition of pioneers in science and technology by the state government. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for supporting the mission and emphasized that such initiatives would play a crucial role in catalysing the country towards Viksit Bharat.
Zhimomi observed that the world is witnessing intense competition over limited resources, with global trade wars revolving around science and technology. He pointed out that Nagaland produces hundreds of graduates every year, yet unemployment remains a challenge. He remarked that the science stream offers greater opportunities and is unlikely to face unemployment in the future. Stressing that science and technology must form the fundamental basis of society, he cited China’s rapid advancement through heavy investments in these fields. He urged Nagaland to chart a clear direction, ensuring that its workforce is scientifically and technologically capable both within and outside the state. Expressing optimism, he said young minds, particularly women, would catalyse Nagaland’s journey towards becoming equal partners with the rest of India.
As part of the celebration, awards were conferred under the Nagaland Science Mission. The first-ever Girl Child Award 2025 was presented to Sashimongla I. Longkumer of Government High School, Longjang, Mokokchung, for securing 98% in Science and Mathematics in the ESLE 2025 under the Government Schools category. She received a certificate and Rs. 20,000 cash prize.
Under the Research Grants for Indigenous Nagas of Nagaland 2025, four R&D projects were approved for implementation from 2025 to 2027, each recipient receiving Rs. 5 lakh. The awardees included Dr. Visesato Mor of NIST, Kohima, for establishing Nagaland’s first Galleria mellonella facility for pathogenicity and drug discovery studies; Dr. Samadangla Ao of Kohima Science College for research on optimizing the jhum agro-ecosystem; Dr. Limamanen Phom of Sao Chang College, Tuensang, for a study on ichthyofaunal diversity and ecology of selected rivers in Noklak district; and Thsope Medo of Nagaland Science & Technology Council for a pilot study on tree diversity mapping and landscape assessment of the Japfu Range.
The Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology 2025 award, carrying Rs. 1 lakh, was jointly conferred on Dr. Sapu Changkija, retired professor, for his contributions to ethnobotany and sustainable farming systems, and Dr. Vinotsole Khamo (Dr. Tina) for advancing clinical research and medical science facilities in Nagaland. The Young Scientist Award 2025 was presented to Dr. Imlisongla Aier, Ph.D. graduate from IIT Delhi, for her work in clean energy, indoor air quality, and environmental health. She received a citation and Rs. 1 lakh.
The programme featured a welcome address by Zeneikhonuo Vimero, joint secretary and ex-officio director, Department of Science & Technology, short speeches by awardees, a science drama by students of PM Shri Government High School, Thahekhu, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Kekuneil Ltu. The event was anchored by Asano Zashu.