State chief minister, Neiphiu Rio, on Tuesday asserted that unity, which, he said was the need of the hour, was “necessary for collective our progress.” Rio, who graced the 75 years Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) as the special guest at Shamator HQ on October 24, 2023, called upon the Nagas to realise the value of common Naga brand and Naga identity and together strengthen the territorial and emotional integrity of Nagaland.
He said that Shamator, the newest district in the State, has been getting all the attention it deserves from the State Government. Keeping in mind its infrastructural and developmental needs, the chief minister said many initiatives have been taken for bringing the new district on a par with rest of the State.
He also called upon the people of the district to unite and work together for the progress of the district. Stating that every district should have one government college, the chief minister announced that the government was working towards setting up a government college at Shamator.
Highlighting various schemes of the government, Rio encouraged the gathering to avail the benefits and take advantage of free medical treatment under the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS). He also briefed on micro loan scheme where citizens can get up loans up to Rs. 50 lakhs. On the occasion, Rio congratulated the YTC and the Yimkhiung people attaining 75 years platinum jubilee.
The chief minister unveiled the Jubilee Monolith which was dedicated by YBBA executive secretary, Rev.Dr.S.J. Akhum. Rio also released the Jubilee Souvenir.
The chief minister virtually inaugurated the NEFA Road connecting Sangphur and Soil colony Shamator. The road was constructed under SASCI (State) during 2023-24.
Greetings messages were delivered by Tenyimi Union Nagaland president, CNTC president and ENPO president.
A short speech was also delivered by the Jubilee Host and advisor for youth resources & sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung. The inaugural function was chaired by missionary Rev. Hopong and welcome address was delivered by planning committee convener Lakiumong.
The keynote address was delivered by YTC president Throngso Yimkhiung. The Jubilee celebration was heralded by Yimkhiung GBs Ariakho. A special folk fusion item was presented by the Trüng Trüng Thülün Fusion Boys and a special song by Tribal Squad. Vote of thanks was proposed by planning committee secretary Deventhong.
Cultural troupes from Lontsunger, Sangphur, Yakor and Shiponger villages presented cultural dances during the celebration.
The jubilee, celebrated on the theme “Celebrating Togetherness”, was attended by minister rural development and SIRD Metsubo Jamir; Minister for power, and parliamentary affairs, K.G.Kenye; advisor to CM, Dr. Chumben Murry and other dignitaries. The hosts of the jubilee include advisor for Youth Resources & Sports, Keoshu and Advisor for Fire & Emergency Services, Home Guards & Civil Defence, Relief & Rehabilitation, S. Kiusemew.
YTC was established on January 1, 1948 at Huker Village under the sessional chairmanship of late P.Hopong Ang as the first president and K.Zungkum as the first general secretary.