Wokha DPDB Meeting in progress with the presence of Chairman DPDB Wokha, Mhonbemo Humtsoe and Advisor Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan in the conference hall of DC Wokha on April 15. (DIPR Photo)
Wokha, April 15 (MExN): The Wokha District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) monthly meeting was presided over by DC and Vice chairman, DPDB Wokha, Vineet Kumar, IAS. The meeting, held on April 15, was attended by Chairman of DPDB, Mhonbemo Humtsoe and Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, stated a DIPR report.
Agendas for the meeting included updates on the construction of National Highway-2 (NH-2), with the Executive Engineer from the Public Works Department informing the gathering that “the project is anticipated to be completed by the following month.” The board emphasised the need for a thorough quality inspection to be conducted in partnership with civil society organizations to ensure standards are met. Additionally, brief discussions were held regarding the ongoing construction of the Wokha-Merapani road.
The proposal to rename Christian Model High School (CMHS) to Pearl’s Christian Model School (PCMS) was discussed and approved for further necessary action. The proprietor of the institution narrated the background and rationale for this renaming initiative. The proposal to rename GHSS, Wokha to Lt Mhondamo Memorial GHSS was approved for further action. Representatives from Lotha Hoho detailed the significance of this proposal, emphasising Lt Mhondamo Kithan’s contributions as the first Lotha graduate from Scottish Church College, Kolkata, in 1948, and as the first Education Minister of Nagaland. The renaming aims to honour his legacy and impactful achievements for the Lotha community. Administrative challenges related to jurisdictional boundaries were discussed for the purpose of reorganization and enhancing administrative efficiency. Departments facing such issues were asked to submit their reports to the Deputy Commissioner’s office by the end of April 2025. Both inter-district and intra-district boundary issues were also considered.
Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission proposed a project for silkworm (Eri) production in the Englan Range, specifically targeting villages such as Yikhum, Englan, and Riphyim. Officials emphasised the suitability of the climatic conditions in these areas for silkworm cultivation and highlighted the potential benefits for the 60-70 households already engaged in this activity. The initiative is expected to promote financial inclusion, improve household nutrition, and generate income for farmers. Government support for capacity building and the establishment of rearing farms was acknowledged.
District Sericulture Officer, Yingsungbeni Ngullie in a PowerPoint presentation provided a historical overview of the department, which has been operational since 1968. She outlined the four varieties of silkworm reared in Wokha—Mulberry, Tussar, Eri, and Muga—with Eri being the most prevalent.
Advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan raised concerns over the absenteeism of officers at their designated postings in Subdivision and Block offices, stressing the inconvenience caused to the general public as a result.
After the meeting, officials visited the Nitrogen Plant under the Veterinary Department at ‘0’ Point, Wokha, where they interacted with officers and staff regarding infrastructure and activities. The Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr KN Zubemo Humtsoe, who holds additional charge as Zonal Project Officer, was commended for his dedication in maintaining and renovating the plant under his personal initiative, ensuring a high standard of operational efficiency.
