Sanitation, water schemes reaching villages: Jacob Zhimomi

Minister for PHED and Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi, on Monday highlighted ongoing development initiatives, stating that government schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission and sanitation programmes were reaching villages and providing essential infrastructure.
Speaking at the 75th jubilee celebration of Sangtamtilla village held at the village council hall under the theme “A Blend of Honoring Past Legacy”, Jacob also inaugurated the newly constructed council hall. He stressed that while the government provides facilities, it is the responsibility of citizens to maintain them.
Encouraging the gathering to reflect on their personal and spiritual lives during the jubilee, Jacob urged them to strive for harmony and seek blessings both in the eyes of God and society. He extended greetings to the people, particularly those from the western sector, and acknowledged the progress made by communities who have settled in the Dimapur region over the years.
Touching on the evolution of villages in Nagaland, Jacob categorized them into three types—traditional villages established by forefathers, non-traditional villages formed with government permits before and after statehood, and villages established through purchased land. He emphasized unity and spiritual growth, noting the transformation brought about by Christianity in fostering compassion and community living.
Earlier, a monolith was dedicated by Sangtamtilla Baptist Lithro pastor Dr. C. Toshimeren Sangtam, while Chang Baptist Lashong pastor Akhang offered the invocation. Council chairman Asemba Mongzar delivered the welcome address, and a moment of silence was observed in remembrance of the founding members. One of the wives of the founding members was felicitated. It was noted that the village was established in 1951.
Advisor for Information Technology, Communication, Economics & Statistics, Evaluation, H. Sethrongkyu Sangtam, unveiled a storybook on the history of the village. Deputy Commissioner Dimapur, Tinojongshi Chang, extended jubilee greetings, describing Dimapur as a “mini Nagaland” and encouraging citizens to uphold peace and harmony. He also informed that coordination meetings were being planned with Assam and Karbi Anglong authorities to address boundary issues peacefully while maintaining status quo, besides highlighting electoral roll verification and the upcoming census exercise.
Commissioner of Police Dimapur, Aotula T. Imchen, termed the 75-year milestone as a historic achievement not only for Sangtamtilla but for Nagaland as a whole. He commended the village for maintaining peace and unity despite challenges and assured continued support from the police.
Short speeches were also delivered by USLP president K. Aliba Sangtam and head GB Thahekhu K. Kakheho Yepthomi. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by council secretary Yolise Thongruh and a benediction by Sangtamtilla Ao Baptist Arogo pastor Nungshimeren.
The celebration was followed by a jubilee feast and an extravaganza night featuring performances by Alobo Naga, Azi Rudy, Khumti Mongzar, Alo Sangtam and Api Anar, hosted by Chingkela T. Sangtam, Miss Kiphire 2022 and Miss Eastern Nagaland first runners-up 2023.