Retrievers, a group of local labourers celebrated their silver jubilee at CBLT conference hall, Tuensang on November 27. (Morung Photo)
Moses Hongang Chang
Tuensang | November 28
In a town grappling with rising unemployment and social challenges, the Retrievers, a group of local labourers, have emerged as a symbol of resilience and dignity in labour. The group celebrated their silver jubilee at the CBLT conference hall, Tuensang on November 27.
A Vision Takes Root
Founded in 1999 by 15 young men under the leadership of Lima Onen Chang, now an MLA, the Retrievers were established to address unemployment among educated but unskilled youth in Tuensang. “Our understanding of employment has been too narrowly focused on government jobs,” Chang said during his keynote address. “We need to reclaim the dignity of labor and provide avenues for honest work.”
The group adopted a dress code to maintain discipline and accountability, with uniforms featuring identification numbers to protect consumers. Initially focused on unskilled labor like carrying goods and performing odd jobs, the Retrievers have grown into a movement that fosters respect for manual labor and provides financial stability.
Lives Transformed Through Hard Work
Members of the Retrievers spoke about how the organization had reshaped their lives. Langan, who joined in 2012, has been able to provide education for his three daughters, despite economic challenges and the dropout of his son. “This job is not just about earning; it’s about reclaiming respect for work and building a stable future for my children,” Langan said, acknowledging his wife’s contributions through traditional weaving and petty trading.
Another member, Chollen, who helped found the group, recalled his struggles in the early years. “I started as a coolie, but through the skills I developed with the Retrievers, I became a mason and now lead my own team,” he said. Despite humble beginnings, Chollen managed to educate his four children, two of whom are now in college. “The Retrievers taught me that dignity in labor is a cornerstone of a fulfilling life,” he added.
The Sweat Fund: A Path to Financial Independence
Central to the Retrievers’ success is the “Sweat Fund,” launched in 2005 by the Eleutheros Christian Society (ECS). The initiative is designed to empower individuals through financial discipline and accessible credit facilities.
Under the Sweat Fund, ECS implements the following measures: Dedicated Staff Management: ECS assigns a dedicated staff member to oversee operations, ensuring accountability; Savings Initiation: Participants save daily or monthly until their savings reach a minimum of Rs 10000; ECS Contribution and Loan: Once a Retriever’s savings hit Rs 10000, ECS contributes an additional 75% of the amount as a loan at an interest rate of 1% per month. The combined amount is utilized for verified loan purposes; Loan Repayment: Loans are repaid in monthly instalments, and savings withdrawals are prohibited until repayment is complete; Loan Verification: ECS rigorously verifies loan purposes to ensure responsible usage; Monitoring and Inspections: Regular inspections and monitoring are conducted to track loan utilization.
Power of Rs 1: Offering Hope
Beyond Financial Aid
The “Power of Rs 1” initiative by ECS complements the Sweat Fund, offering targeted support for medical, educational, and disability-related challenges:
1. Medical Support:
- Rs 50,000 for cancer patients.
- Rs 10,000 for accidental death cases.
- Rs 3,000 for natural death cases.
- Rs 2,000 for bedridden or handicapped children.
2. Educational Achievements:
- Rs 50,000 for clearing UPSC exams.
- Rs 15,000 for clearing NPSC exams.
- Rs 10,000 for clearing NEET exams.
- Rs 20,000 each for securing a spot in the Top 20 of HSLC or HSSLC.
These initiatives have empowered Retrievers to achieve financial independence and navigate crises effectively. Moa, a former president of the group, transitioned from running a small pan shop to managing a thriving business, earning Rs 30000– Rs 40000 monthly. “The Sweat Fund gave me the foundation to build something lasting,” he said.
A Legacy of Community Service
Beyond economic empowerment, the Retrievers have contributed significantly to Tuensang’s social fabric. From organizing cleanliness drives to aiding hospitals and supporting families during crises, their impact extends far beyond their work as labourers. The group also participates in events like the Loyem Memorial Trophy, promoting teamwork and community pride.
Silver Jubilee Celebration
The silver jubilee programme, chaired by first chairman A Chuba, featured speeches by notable dignitaries, including MLA Lima Onen Chang, Tuensang Town Chamber of Commerce President Ebesola, and Chang Khulei Setshang President NY Choba. Former Retrievers, led by S Yonachoba and T Chang, performed a special song, and the new initiatives were ceremonially launched by Rev Dr Chang.
Rev Dr Chingmak Chang, ECS Secretary, emphasised the value of financial discipline, stating, “The Sweat Fund is not just a financial tool; it’s a lifeline for many who dream of building something bigger than themselves.”
The event special guest, Deputy Commissioner Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa, lauded the Retrievers for their dedication and discipline, emphasizing the need to replicate such models in other communities. “The Retrievers are an example of how determination and community effort can bring about lasting change,” she said.
