T R Zeliang with Advisor Namri Nchang and others during the unveiling of the monolith commemorating the 75th anniversary of New Tesen village.
Dimapur, February 2 (MExN): New Tesen village commemorated its 75th anniversary on February 2 with the theme ‘celebrating our heritage, embracing a brighter future’ at a function held in the village.
Speaking as the special guest, Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang said that Nagaland needs total transformation on all fronts and called upon every Naga citizen to play an active role in the transformation process. He urged the people to embrace change, foster a sense of community, and work hand in hand with the government to build a prosperous and sustainable future.
“Transformation is collective effort. It requires not only the will of govt but also the support and participation of the every Naga citizen. Together we can build a society that is not only strong and resilient but also just, inclusive and prosperous”, he stated.
Zeliang said that as Nagaland continues on its path of development and transformation, the government of the day remains committed to creating an environment where all citizens can thrive, with a clear vision for the future and a spirit of collaboration. He expressed confidence that the changes underway will contribute to a stronger, more unified and progressive Naga society.
He highlighted several key sectors that need to be addressed properly to usher the state into an era of positive change, including ensuring peace and stability, fostering economic growth and infrastructure development, upgrading education and skill development, promotion of Naga culture and identity, and improving health and social welfare.
Addressing the youth, Zeliang said that while education remains one of the greatest assets and parents have made many sacrifices to ensure their children are educated, youths must understand the realities of today’s world. He said that all educated youths cannot and should not depend solely on government employment.
He said the future of Nagaland depends on how creatively and responsibly youths use their education, adding that there are immense opportunities in entrepreneurship, agriculture and allied sectors, skill-based professions, small businesses, and other areas of the private sector.
Zeliang emphasised the need to embrace the dignity of labour and said that success should not be measured only by government jobs, but by how youths contribute to society, create livelihoods, and strengthen communities. He encouraged youths to become job creators rather than job seekers, and to embrace innovation, hard work, and self-reliance.
“While education open many doors, it is important to understand that all educated youths cannot be absorbed into govt. Service. Our strength lies in creating opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture and the private sector”, he said, adding that youths must look beyond government jobs and explore entrepreneurship, skill-based work, and self-employment in a fast-developing world.
Zeliang also said that Peren district holds a significant place in Nagaland’s development journey and assured that the government will work towards inclusive growth by strengthening road connectivity, improving the education system, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities.
He congratulated New Tesen village on attaining its 75th anniversary and urged the village to renew its commitment to peace, progress, and collective responsibility. He said that New Tesen village stands as a symbol of resilience, harmony, and progress.
