Correspondent
KOHIMA, OCT 1 (NPN): The official culmination programme of Swachhata Hi Seva 2026, an initiative of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, was held at the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) Waste Management Plant at Lerie, Kohima on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering as the special guest, advisor School Education, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, MLA stressed the importance of understanding and implementing initiatives introduced at the national level. He said compliance with the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission would be crucial for the State to access available funds. Referring to the Rs. 732 crore allocation, he said the funds would be made available only after the required compliance was fulfilled.
Speaking on the growing challenge of waste management, Yhome observed that changes in lifestyle and the increasing consumption of fast food had contributed to a rise in waste generation. He said the ability to manage waste effectively has become an enormous challenge for developing societies.
He emphasised that the participation of every individual is essential in making Nagaland a cleaner and more beautiful state. He said that Nagaland is the only state that does not fall under the Panchayati Raj system, which has three levels of governance for development, while Nagaland has only one.
Encouraging KMC members, he suggested visiting relevant townships and cities with similar conditions to learn from their experiences and adopt suitable practices. “Things we don’t know, we learn from others,” he said.
Yhome further pointed out that sufficient funding opportunities are available for solid and liquid waste management and said it would be unfortunate if the state failed to utilise them effectively. He also noted that waste management has the potential to develop into a profitable business and encouraged greater attention to the economic opportunities in the sector.
He suggested the use of transparent garbage bags as an alternative to the existing bags and assured his continued support towards initiatives aimed at improving waste management.
Calling for sustained public participation, Yhome urged citizens to create and repeatedly reinforce a positive narrative around cleanliness and collective responsibility in order to make Kohima a cleaner and more beautiful city.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by KMC councillor Ruokuovolie Rutsa, while the invocation was offered by CRC Pfuchama pastor Ketholelie Seletsu. KMC chairman Neibodzelie Solo delivered the welcome address, followed by a speech by SDO, PHED, Er. Khaoshai. A special song was presented by Azi Rudy, while the KMC Chief Executive Officer, Alemyapang Longchar, delivered the vote of thanks.