Minister for PWD, Roads and Bridges, Nagaland, G. Kaito Aye graced the inaugural edition of the Satakhami Union Dimapur (SUD) and Western Satoi Range Public Union (WSRPU) two-day sports exchange programme that commenced on Friday at the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex, Dimapur as the special guest. Held under the theme “Unity Through Sports”, the event is organized in collaboration with the Satakha Range Students Union and Satoi Range Students Union.
Aye emphasized the importance of unity among the Satakha people. “Satakha Constituency should not be divided along block or area lines but remain united under a single identity,” he stated. Tracing the administrative history of Satoi Block, he noted its transitions from Kohima district (before 1959) to Mokokchung district (in 1959), and subsequently to Zunheboto district (in 1973). He acknowledged that insurgency-related challenges had previously hindered education and infrastructure development in the region but affirmed that Satoi Block now fully falls under the Satakha Constituency.
“Regardless of future delimitation exercises, Satoi and Satakha will remain one,” Aye declared. He encouraged urban residents from Satakha to reconnect with their roots, share knowledge, promote unity and take moral responsibility for the development of their homeland. He also called on retired citizens to return to Satakha and contribute their experience to shape its future.
Proposing the integration of the Satakha Area Sports and Cultural Association (SASCA) with a community-driven Satakha Club, the Minister said this would foster talent development among youth. He expressed his willingness to support and sponsor young people excelling in sports but cautioned against organizing repeated cultural events involving large expenditures with limited community benefit.
“Redirect public funds toward youth support, coaching initiatives, and skill development,” he advised.
On education, Aye stressed the need to improve learning quality and student enrolment in Satakha. He pledged to establish a government college in Satakha Town if educational standards continue to progress and challenged stakeholders to take active responsibility in promoting educational growth. “Progress requires collective effort,” he said, appealing to the people of Satakha to build a progressive and self-reliant community. Concluding his remarks, he urged that the event’s motto, “Unity Through Sports”, be translated into tangible action beginning within families and individuals. He expressed hope that the initiative would mark a new era of unity for the Satakha people and assured his continued support.
Reflecting on broader issues, Aye stated, “God has blessed the Naga people, but prolonged complexities surrounding the Naga political issue have caused division.” He called upon all stakeholders to allow competent forums to handle the matter responsibly, expressing confidence that a united voice will ultimately bring about a meaningful political solution.
Delivering a greeting message, retired IAS officer and former Secretary & First Appellate Authority, Department of Food and Civil Supplies, Kiheto Zhimo, urged the people of Satakha to live lives rooted in integrity and reverence for God. Citing the biblical example of Joseph, who rose from servanthood to become the Governor of Egypt, Zhimo said, “Joseph’s journey was marked by obedience, integrity, and faith—qualities that ultimately elevated him to a position of great responsibility.”
Encouraging the adoption of similar values, he appealed for humility and integrity in daily life, saying, “God uplifts those who live righteously.” He emphasized the importance of earning and using clean money, advising parents, “Never allow easy or ill-gotten money to educate your children, because such money will never bear good fruit.”
Drawing from personal experience, Zhimo challenged the youth to excel in competitive exams and stand shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the Naga community.
He reminded them to use time wisely and live purposefully without regrets. He also encouraged youth to explore fulfilling avenues such as sports and entrepreneurship, noting that not everyone can become a government servant. In his welcome address, Convenor of the Organizing Committee, Hukato Muru, highlighted that this marks the first time in 30 years of the two organizations’ existence that such an inter-union sports event has been held. He expressed gratitude to Minister G. Kaito Aye for his presence and words of wisdom.
A total of 31 villages under the Satakha Constituency are participating in the event, which features competitions in badminton (men’s and women’s) and volleyball, among others. The formal programme was chaired by Viyihe Muru, with Lika Awomi serving as a member of the Organizing Committee. Newto Zhimo delivered the vote of thanks, and Puloto T. Aye recorded the proceedings.
Nagaland Kaito graces first SUD-WSRPU sports meet
Dimapur, Nov 7 (NPN)
