Sano Meru
March 2
KOHIMA (MExN): Inaugurating the new Kohima Village Council (KVC) building, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest stated that the establishment of the impressive two-storey building could be termed as a lifetime achievement reached through the cooperation of the people. Stating that cooperation could be clearly seen through this achievement, he maintained that Kohima Village being the largest village should be a model village for others to follow. Stressing the importance of the new Village Panchayat he said that even though Supreme Court and high courts are set up for justice there is nothing like a village Panchayat where justice can be achieve in a subtle way.
Rio also stated his concern about Nagas losing their identity and said more traditional landmarks should come up in and around the village so that tourists can talk about the Nagas’ unique identity and traditions. He assured the villagers that he would contribute in decorating the building in a more traditional manner which could also serve as a tourist attraction. “When tourists come they are shown only the cemetery and it is a shame as we can show only a graveyard. The country has recognized our state being unique in all ways but we always adopt western styles as our own and are loosing our identity at a fast rate. More traditional landmarks should be set up in order to maintain the richness and uniqueness of our culture” he said while expressing his concern and questioning our present state. The Chief Minister particularly pointed out that in a village the houses with traditional designs and styles look beautiful but lamented that more and more modern styles and designs are appearing with the coming of modernity. Therefore, he suggested that the houses in villages be constructed with a touch of traditional design in order to preserve traditions and also with a view for attracting tourists. Rio further suggested that the village, as one of the biggest, should have a good local ground and promised to help them for the construction. He also promised to the village good water supply.
He stressed on the socio-economic development of the State and said that the Kohima village people in particular and Naga people as a whole should get into business to capture the market. He also urged the villagers not to live on a daily hand and mouth existence but to work with the future in mind for the betterment of the future generation.
Earlier Rev. Viwelie Khezhie, senior Pastor, Khedi Baptist Church said the invocation prayer, Atoulie Mepfhü-o, Chairman, Kohima Village Council delivered the welcome address, Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu Minister Planning and Urban Development said the greetings, Thepfulhouvi Solo, Convenor gave the Building Committee Report and a number of special songs were also presented.
A host of dignitaries, Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries were present for the occasion. The cost of the new building was earlier estimated at around Rs 65 lakhs.
