Nagaland: Kesonyu urges NSSA to revive work culture

Nagaland Secretariat Service Association (NSSA) held its triennial conference 2025 at Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, on Friday under the theme “Public Service: More than a Job, a Calling.” The event brought together alumni, officials and members of the association in a dignified gathering.
Gracing the occasion as special guest, Commissioner & Secretary to the chief minister, Works & Housing and Finance Commissioner, Kesonyu Yhome, called upon NSSA members to revive their work culture, strengthen commitment to public service and reclaim their important role in policy formulation.
Yhome underscored the indispensable role of NSSA in the functioning of the State’s administrative machinery, describing the Nagaland Civil Service Association (NCSA) as the “backbone” and NSSA as the “engine” that keeps the system running. He said NSSA personnel serve as the institutional memory of the State, providing continuity and stability across departments even as IAS and other officials come and go.
Expressing concern over the perceived decline in work culture compared to earlier decades, Yhome reminded government employees that privileges must be matched by duty, sincerity and discipline. He urged NSS officers to adopt solution-oriented thinking in meetings and administrative processes, and to contribute innovative ideas and practical solutions rather than waiting for directives from higher authorities. He also encouraged deliberations on restrictive land laws and revenue generation, stressing that NSS officers are well positioned to provide meaningful recommendations.
Theme speaker, Addl. Secretary (Retd.) and former NSSA president H. Lungalang, highlighted the unique privilege of NSS officers who remain posted in Kohima throughout their career. He recalled key contributions during his tenure, including cadre review and support for officers affected during the 2009 mass retirement. Lungalang urged members to value their positions, work sincerely and dedicate themselves fully to their duties, reminding them that true satisfaction at retirement comes from service rendered to people.
Delivering the presidential address, NSSA president Chubasangla Longkumer highlighted the association’s growth in strength, stature and professionalism. She expressed confidence in members’ ability to shoulder higher responsibilities, acknowledged the guidance of retired officers through the NSS Retired Forum, and outlined welfare initiatives including the NSS Cooperative Society Ltd. and government-approved land for residential quarters and recreational facilities. She also praised the active participation of women members and emphasized collaboration with other service associations.
The conference also featured felicitation of NSSA achievers, Meripeni Ngullie for the with Governor’s Gold Medal and Nusieta Rhakho, Ketoulhou Metha, Veduta Thira, P. Nungsangwapang Jamir, Khonthungo Lotha, T. Liemnon Konyak and Asela Seth Sangtam for the Governor’s Commendation Certificates award. Special songs were presented by the 1993 senior-most batch of NSS and Adela Seth Sangram.
The programme was chaired by Chumdiakum Sangtam, invocation led by Khonthungo Lotha, and vote of thanks delivered by NSSA general secretary Benito K. Swu. The business session concluded with the selection of new office bearers of the association.