PROMISES UPGRADATION OF DDSC, NEW OFFICES FOR NCD & NC
Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) celebrated its Platinum Jubilee under the theme “ 75 Years of Naga Unity,” at an impressive function held at the Dimapur District Sports Council (DDSC) Complex on Saturday.
Addressing a jam-packed DDSC complex, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described the platinum jubilee as an important occasion for unity. He said NCD’s motto, “All in One,” underscores its objective for unity and integration of various tribes and communities, such as 16 tribes of Nagaland and four from Manipur-.Tangkhul, Mao, Anal and Poumai.
Rio also said it was high time for all people to unite and acknowledged the contribution of the pioneers NCD in serving Nagas through the vision of oneness and unity of various communities especially in Dimapur
The chief minister stressed on unity as a crucial component for achieving lasting peace and development and urged upon people to align their goals and attention for collective progress. Rio lamented that lack of solution to the Naga political issue reflected lack of unity among Nagas.
He reiterated Dimapur was “a miniature Nagaland and miniature India”, and commended NCD’s efforts in the 75 years of embracing both Naga and non-Naga communities in its fold to unite and serve.
He hoped that NCD would keep up the spirit to continue to foster unity and oneness in its journey. Rio pointed out that Dimapur is not only the commercial district of the state but also rail and air head of Nagaland which is poised at a strategic location along the Trans-Asian highway to south East Asia. He urged upon people to consider this aspect and move forward and progress together in a spirit of oneness.
Rio said the British rulers respected Nagas and decided to not interfere in their local affairs.
It was due to this that the British enforced Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation(BEFR) Act 1873, to protect the Naga cultural heritage. Further down, Rio said after Nagaland became a state, the 16 point agreement and the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act were applied under the Article 371 (A).
Dwelling on introduction of Inner Line Permit (ILP) over erstwhile undivided Dimapur district, Rio said it will be implemented without discrimination against other Indian citizens. He also assured that that non Naga residents who settled in Dimapur on or before December 1, 1963 – the cut-off date , would be given permanent resident status.
On the contentious issue of applicability of Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN), Rio specifically mentioned only minority tribes such as, Kukis, Kacharis, Garos and Mikirs (Karbis).
Rio clarified that it was because a large section from among them are residents of other north eastern states. He said those among the four tribes who settled in Nagaland on or before the cut off date(December 1,1963) would be deemed as non-Naga indigenous citizens of the state.
Rio also said that as Nagaland is exempted from the purview of Panchayati Raj as per 73rd Amendment, there will be no election but only selection as per customary laws to the village councils.
DDSC UPGRADATION, NEW OFFICES FOR NCD & NC: Dwelling on the recent ULB elections, held after a gap of 22 years, Rio acknowledged tribal and civil society organizations for their role in ensuring peaceful elections, and also called on public to support the newly elected councilors.
He also assured that the government will fund new office building for NCD and a six-story building for the Naga Club Kohima. He also committed to upgrade the DDSC complex to international standards in view of its historical significance and the need for enhanced facilities.
Concluding his speech, Rio encouraged people of Dimapur to address social issues and strive for harmony, setting a positive example for the state. “If Dimapur progresses, Nagaland will progress,” he asserted, and pledged his support to strengthen Dimapur as an economic hub.
Speaking as guest of honour on the occasion, Advisor for Elections and Tribal Affairs, H Tovihoto Ayemi, hailed the council as an “apex organization dedicated to every tribe, family, and person who calls this city home.”
Celebrating 75 years of unity and resilience, Ayemi highlighted the NCD’s role in promoting peace, preserving cultural identity, and fostering social cohesion across Dimapur’s diverse communities.
Describing Dimapur as a place “where tradition meets progress,” Ayemi reflected on the founders’ vision of uniting varied tribes into a harmonious community. He honored the selfless dedication of those who built the organization, recognizing their commitment to fostering understanding and respect among the city’s communities.
“It takes respect, commitment, and the leadership we see today,” he noted.
Urging everyone to sustain the spirit of peace and brotherhood, Ayemi called for active involvement in strengthening social bonds. “Let us rejoice in the past, engage in the present, and envision a bright future together,” he encouraged, expressing hope that Dimapur remains a “beacon of hope and progress” where young people can dream big, and diversity and ambition fuel its future.
Also speaking as guest of honour on the occasion , Advisor for Labor and Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer, hailed the platinum jubilee celebrate both as a historical tribute and a reaffirmation of unity and shared vision. Reflecting on the Naga Council Dimapur’s (NCD) 75-year legacy, Longkumer praised the founders’ foresight in establishing a platform that unified diverse Naga tribes for collective action.
“Our strength lies in our unity,” he emphasized, applauding the council’s resilience through political and economic challenges. He stressed that unity isn’t only for times of hardship but essential for building a shared future.
Longkumer urged ongoing dialogue, respect, and collaboration, calling on everyone to address vital issues like development, education, healthcare, and employment for a brighter future. “Leadership in fostering unity goes beyond titles,” he stated, encouraging individuals to lead with integrity and compassion. He concluded by urging the community to uphold their ancestors’ values of unity, respect, and progress for the collective good.
Earlier the chief minister also unveiled the Unity Monolith at Naga Council Mhalie Market Complex.
The programme was chaired by Ben Pamei and Antimomola Chang, invocation offered by lead Pastor, CBCD, Rev P Bonny Resü, and welcome address delivered by vice president, (admin), NCD, and Jubilee Planning Convenor, Holuto Aye.
Presidential address was delivered by president, NCD, Etsungmomo Kikon, brief history of NCD shared by former NCD president, Savi Liegise, act of jubilee blessing invoked by Pastor, LBCD, Rev Zanao Mozhüi, release of souvenir by chief minister Neiphiu Rio, solidarity message by advisor, Dimapur District Citizen Forum, Advocate KK Paul, greetings by deputy commissioner, Dimapur, Dr Tinojongshi Chang, special number by jubilee choir, OTS, words of gratitude by vice president (CB), NCD, GK Rengma, and benediction offered by Pastor, SBCDD, rec Thridong. Cultural dances from various cultural were also performed during the jubilee celebration.