Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan unveils the book authored by Rev Dr Yanbemo Lotha on April 13. (DIPR Photo)
Dimapur, April 13 (MExN): A book launch ceremony was held at the Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur on April 13, marking the release of two new publications authored by Rev Dr Yanbemo Lotha, in the presence of church leaders, scholars, officials, and invited guests.
The two books launched were “The Naga Returnees: Rebuilding Lives (Post Covid-19 Pandemic)” and “Basic Lotha (Kyong Yi) English Yilanglita (Conversation)” highlighting the lived experiences of Naga returnees in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the importance of language preservation, respectively.
Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, launching the two books, praised the author for his dedication and sacrifice in pursuing literary work while actively supporting communities during the Covid-19 pandemic. Yanthan described writing as a “special gift from God,” saying it demands discipline, research, and dedicated effort.
Noting the government’s recent approval for the introduction of local languages in academics, the Advisor called on Lotha writers to step up their literary output, saying books produced now could eventually be inducted into degree-level curricula.
He stressed the need for clarity and standardisation in literature, urging authors to consult literature boards before releasing books in order to prevent confusion among younger learners.
Yanthan also encouraged the younger generation to develop reading habits, asserting that reading sharpens the mind and intellect and is more enriching than mobile phones. He appealed to those present to purchase the newly released books as a gesture of support to writers and to inspire others to contribute to literature.
Principal Secretary for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, and Parliamentary Affairs, Y Kikheto Sema (IAS), recalled the State Government's coordinated response during the COVID-19 crisis in Dimapur, underscoring the massive logistical effort undertaken to receive stranded citizens following the nationwide lockdown in 2020.
Sema said the government had set up a special team to manage the return of stranded citizens, establishing 52 quarantine centres with around 4,000 beds to accommodate nearly 65% of the returnees.
“The first special train, carrying 2,469 returnees from Chennai, arrived on May 22, 2020, followed by several more trains, buses, and a flight. In total, around 17,000 returnees were received in Dimapur within 28 days,” he said.
The senior IAS officer paid tribute to Rev Dr Yanbemo Lotha, describing him as a “Man of Action” who stood firmly with the core team through both the first and second waves of the pandemic.
Sema attributed the successful management of the crisis to what he termed the “4 Cs” — Cooperation, Coordination, Confidence, and Contribution.
Speaking on the significance of the newly released book, the Principal Secretary said the publication captures the journeys of those who became “returnees” during the pandemic and documents the untold stories of compassion, resilience, and sacrifice.
“The book serves as an important record of the time when countless people faced uncertainty and hardship, ensuring that future generations will remember the sacrifices made by the Covid warriors,” he added.
One author, two missions
The core genre and thematic essence of the first book was presented by Dr S Ekonthung Ezung, Associate Professor, ETC Jorhat, who described the occasion as “a rare and significant milestone,” noting that the release of two books by a single author on the same day was a remarkable achievement, particularly in a region where literary contributions are still developing.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Ezung said the book critically examines the struggles faced by returnees during the pandemic, including transportation issues, quarantine challenges, access to healthcare, and social stigma, while also raising important theological and practical questions for the Church.
He added that the work calls for a shift “from fear to compassion, from charity to dignity, and from reactive to proactive ministry,” expressing hope that the book would not only be read but also lived out, transforming the way communities think, respond, and care in times of crisis.
The second publication, Basic Lotha (Kyong Yi) English Yilanglita (Conversation), was presented by Professor Ezamo Murry, former Principal, ETC Jorhat, who underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the Lotha language through accessible educational resources and conversation-based learning.
Prof Murry noted that the book would serve as a valuable tool in strengthening language skills and encouraging the continued use of the Lotha language among younger generations and learners.
