ZUNHEBOTO, NOVEMBER 27 (MExN): The Satoi Range GBs Association successfully held its 29th Biennial General Conference from November 26-27 at Tsutoho village, Satoi block. The conference, themed "Unity Our Refuge," was attended by G. Kaito Aye, Minister of Roads and Bridges, as the special guest on November 27.
In his address, G Kaito Aye emphasized the importance of community participation in achieving development, highlighting the need for quality workmanship in construction projects. He also urged the GBs to take an active role in community development ensuring quality workmanship.
Kaito stated that he will not compromise on quality workmanship, particularly for road construction or any other development in the region. He emphasized that he will insist on projects being implemented as per the specification of the DPR, for the larger interest of the community.
He also remarked that it is high time to reform electoral politics. He mentioned that many candidates from Satakha have been victimized by the common people. He cautioned that people should not encourage or force someone to become a candidate, only to be victimized later by those involved in politics. He emphasized that an elected representative is elected by the people, not by any section of people.
The Satoi Range GBs Association submitted a memorandum to the Minister, requesting the construction of blacktopping road connectivity in the region connecting the administrative headquarters at Satoi during the current leadership. In response, the Minister assured his best efforts to meet their demands and appealed for public cooperation.
The Association also requested the setup of a Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) company at Satoi HQ to facilitate proper security services in the region. They requested the demarcation of Satoi block on a pocket/block-wise basis in the next review of the reservation policy by the state government, ensuring an equitable distribution of reservation benefits among the backward tribes.
Considering Satoi's remote location from Zunheboto district and the lack of employment opportunities, the Minister responded that reservation can only be reviewed after the conduct of the latest census, and he took note of the request.
Additionally, the Association requested the opening of a Nagaland Rural Bank at Satoi administrative headquarters for administrative convenience and development in the region.
The program featured Shikavi Awomi Pastor, Chairman of Satoi Range Church Leaders Fellowship, as a speaker, and Newto K. Zhimomi, President of Western Satoi Range Public Union delivered greetings. Akukau Kughai Advisor delivered the vote of thanks, and Kavito, Pastor, Ghokhuvi Baptist Church, offered the benediction. The next 31-U Satoi Range GBs Association will be hosted at Itovi village.
