Rev Achu, Executive Secretary, Chang Baptist Lashong Thangyen dedicating the monolith.

SIPONGSANG, DECEMBER 20 (MExN): The Sipongsang Bukmüt Thangjam (Sipongsang Citizens’ Union) observed its Silver Jubilee on December 17 at Sipongsang Village in Tuensang district. Rev. Achu Chang, Executive Secretary of the Chang Baptist Lashong Thangyen, served as the event’s keynote speaker, and a commemorative monolith was dedicated during the program. ChongshenMongba C Chang and Sangyangtola C compered the event.
The morning session began with an invocation prayer by T Berila, Associate Pastor Women of Sipongsang Baptist Lashong. Hangba, Convenor of the Planning Committee, delivered the welcome address.
Mosa, Pastor of SBL, led a prayer in remembrance of deceased citizens, followed by short speeches from B Chuba, President of the SipongsangBukmüt Thangjam; Ramchuba, Council Chairman of Sipongsang Village; K Yanchumong, Former President of SBT; and Toyang, Former MLA of Nagaland. Baptist Youth Endeavour members presented a special song during the session.
A History Book (Souvenir) was dedicated, and Rev. Achu Chang addressed the gathering. In his speech, he highlighted the significance of the celebration as a moment to honor past generations and to look forward to a progressive future. He spoke of the past glories brought by the citizens of Sipongsang Village to the people of Tuensang and Nagaland. He also mentioned several past dignitaries who were pioneers for the Naga people, with particular emphasis on Imlong Chang, Order of the British Empire (OBE), who is renowned in countries such as the USA and Britain for his contributions to Naga history.
Rev. Achu Chang encouraged the citizens of Sipongsang Village to carry forward the rich legacy of the past and aim for greater achievements for future generations. He urged the gathering to change their mindset in various aspects of life. To students, he emphasized changing the way they study; to electors, he advocated for changing the way they elect leaders; to farmers, he encouraged changing farming practices. He called for a collective transformation in the way people think and act.
B Chekum, Secretary of the Planning Committee, delivered the vote of thanks. The session concluded with a mass prayer and a Jubilee Feast.
The evening session was led by Berimong, Executive Chairman of SBT. Tsuyanla, Youth Director of SBL, pronounced the invocation prayer, and S Elem, Head Gaon Bura, gave the welcome address.
Short speeches were delivered by Tonchingsangla, President of SipongsangSaoshuong Thangjam, Tuensang Town, and H Zungkum, a former candidate. The Sipongsang Wedoshi group from Tuensang Town performed a special song.
The Council Chairman announced the newly elected officials of SBT, followed by speeches from the outgoing and incoming presidents. Mosa, Pastor of SBL, delivered a message before a mass prayer.
The celebration concluded with folk dance performances by the Village Guards, Sipongsang Students, and members of the community, followed by a bonfire.