Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister and Special Guest of the inaugural session the Lotha Eloe Hoho’s 9th General Conference, Yanthungo Patton with others at Tiyi Hall, Wokha Town on April 28. (Morung Photo)
9th Lotha Eloe Hoho general conference underway in Wokha
Morung Express News
Wokha | April 28
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton on Monday called for stronger cultural vigilance, preservation of indigenous language, greater women’s leadership and collective social responsibility as the 9th General Conference of the Lotha Eloe Hoho got underway at Tiyi Hall, Wokha Town.
Under the theme “Women of Vision, Shaping the Future,” the two-day conference will culminate on April 29.
Gracing the inaugural session as the special guest, Patton, who is also Minister in-charge of Home and Border Affairs, conveyed appreciation for the unity and strength demonstrated by the gathering, describing it as encouraging to witness such a large congregation of women.
He urged that similar platforms be extended beyond Wokha and assured his support for such initiatives.
Highlighting the growing role of women in society, Patton encouraged greater participation of women in governance, including parliamentary representation.
He also lauded the Lotha Youth Hoho for its resolution advocating a drug-free Wokha and called for collective responsibility in tackling drug abuse and HIV/AIDS through stricter measures and community vigilance.
Raising concern over declining agricultural practices, the Deputy CM also appealed to the youth to return to farming and adopt a strong work culture.
He further announced plans to sponsor members of the LEH on an exposure visit to Mizoram to study community-driven development and local business practices.
On the issue of illegal immigration in districts like Wokha and Dimapur, he urged landlords to remain vigilant.
Stressing the importance of cultural preservation, Patton called on parents to actively teach their mother language to their children, cautioning that indigenous languages could gradually disappear if not nurtured from an early age.
Women key to preserving language: Dr Humtsoe
Speaking on the conference theme, Dr N Janbemo Humtsoe, educator and Vice President of the Lotha Academy, said that women today are excelling in diverse fields, from entrepreneurship to academics.
He observed that many local businesses in Wokha are run by women, reflecting a positive shift in society.
He also highlighted academic achievements, noting that a student recently secured full marks in the Lotha subject, marking a significant milestone.
Emphasising the importance of language preservation, Dr Humtsoe said women play a vital role within the family as primary nurturers and key influencers of the younger generation.
He stated that the home remains the first place where children learn their identity, and that through everyday interaction, mothers can gently instil the values of one’s language and culture.
To this end, he encouraged creating a home environment where children grow up appreciating and learning their mother tongue, even if it may appear challenging at first.
He also highlighted the role of organisations such as the Naga Mothers' Association, formed in 1984, in promoting peace and unity in the state.
In his greetings, Lotha Hoho Chairman Er Mhondamo Ovung noted the steady progress of women across sectors, citing recent HSLC and HSSLC results where girls outperformed boys.
He commended both past and present members of the LEH for their unity and contributions to society.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Thungbeni Ngullie appreciated the participation of members from across the district despite inclement weather.
Move from hesitation to confidence: Advisor Yanthan
Addressing the second session as special guest, Advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan commended the LEH for its consistent contributions to the community and its active presence in important forums.
Acknowledging the challenges of leadership, he encouraged members to remain committed despite criticism.
Yanthan called upon women to move from hesitation to confidence, from dependence to self-reliance, and from silence to meaningful participation in society.
He emphasised the need for women to take active roles in economic activities, including entrepreneurship, and to strengthen a unified voice in addressing community issues.
Addressing environmental concerns, he expressed alarm over the depletion of the Etsutchukha water source and linked it to deforestation in the Tiyi forest area.
Urging collective responsibility, Yanthan called on citizens to protect forests and natural resources, stressing that environmental conservation must be a shared duty.
Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, K Mhathung Tsanglao, meanwhile, described women as the “architects of society,” noting their central role in nurturing and shaping future generations. He stated that the values and discipline imparted by women play a crucial role in preserving tradition and culture.
Women custodians of ecological knowledge: Dr Tsanglao
Speaking on the theme “Role of Naga Women in Conservation of Environment,” Dr C Zubeni Tsanglao, Wildlife Warden Dimapur, highlighted the deep connection between Naga women and nature.
She noted that women have traditionally been custodians of ecological knowledge, passed down through generations, and play a vital role in sustainable resource management.
She further emphasised the importance of community-based conservation, including afforestation, waste management, and responsible use of forest resources.
Encouraging greater participation, she called on women to lead environmental awareness initiatives and advocate against overexploitation of natural resources.
The conference will conclude on April 29, with MLA Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe and MLA Achumbemo Kikon scheduled to grace the sessions.
