Kohima, October 6 (MExN): The Department of Horticulture bid farewell to the outgoing Director, N. Amos Ao, who retired after rendering 35 years of service. The programme, which was attended by a host of dignitaries including AHoDs and Director, Agriculture, was held on October 4 at the Directorate of Horticulture, Kohima.
Speaking on behalf of the Directorate Staff, Qhutovi Wotsa, Joint Director of Horticulture highlighted some of the notable achievements of the outgoing Director, like the successful celebration of the Department’s Silver Jubilee in the month of April, the successful conduct of the State Level Pineapple Festival in the month of August, and the approval of the Department’s proposal for Cadre Review by the Cadre Review Committee.
A press release stated that the Director of Agriculture, Helie Rupreo reminisced on his close association with the retiring officer during the college days and the struggles they overcame together in the earlier years of their service. He wished Amos a very happy and healthy retired life.
Alan Gonmei, Secretary (Horticulture) appreciated the contributions of the outgoing Director, while highlighting that Amos had been posted to all the eleven districts in different capacities, and he had discharged his duties and responsibilities without complaining. Alan urged the incoming Head of Department and officer to emulate the qualities of the outgoing Director so as to take the department to new heights. The Secretary also wished the outgoing Director a very happy retired life.
Meanwhile, Amos Ao urged the Department to continue to strive forward with the legacy that he is leaving behind and expressed hope that soon the Fixed Pay employees of the Department will be able to enjoy the scale pay once the recommendations of the Cadre Review Committee is approved by the cabinet. He also urged the officers and staff to build better coordination and relationship with other agri & allied departments who were all a part of the same Agriculture family. The outgoing Director expressed hope that under the leadership of the new Head of Department, the department will be able to reach new heights in the service of the farming community. He further urged the officers and staff to be sincere and concerted in their efforts to achieve the vision and to work unceasingly towards the welfare of the farming community. Short speeches were also delivered by officers from the Secretariat and district offices. Sentinungba enthralled the gathering with a special number and the programme, which was chaired by Dr. R. Elithung Lotha, Joint Director & Mission Director (MIDH), ended with a vote of thanks from Jerry Patton, Deputy Director.
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