MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso has called for greater involvement of technical professionals in Nagaland’s administration, saying their expertise could strengthen the planning and implementation of development projects.
Speaking at the National Engineers’ Day Celebration cum Biennial General Conference 2026 of the Federation of Nagaland State Engineering Service Associations (FONSESA) at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, on Tuesday, Rhutso said Nagaland needed its best minds to contribute to governance and development.
He emphasised the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in driving sustainable development and said no society could progress towards sustainable development without the involvement of engineers.
Rhutso also stressed the need for greater convergence among professions, drawing a parallel between engineering and medicine. He pointed out that various medical technologies and instruments were products of engineering innovation and said both professions ultimately worked towards the comfort and well-being of humanity.
He urged senior professionals to inspire and guide the younger generation and called on engineers and other professionals to use their knowledge and capabilities for the betterment of society.
The MLA was speaking as the special guest at the Engineers’ Day celebration, held on the theme, “Engineering Excellence for a Sustainable and Technological Development.”
FONSESA president Er. Fineson Pojar, in his address, highlighted the role of engineers as problem-solvers and as an important backbone of nation-building. He said engineers build a bridge between science and society and urged members to uphold professional integrity and work beyond individual interests.
Pojar also called for dynamic and issue-based leadership that speaks for Nagaland as a whole rather than being confined to individual constituencies. He urged aspiring leaders to maintain a broader vision towards building a developed and united Nagaland.
He said professional contribution should not end with retirement, adding that engineers could continue to contribute to society through the knowledge and systems they help build during their service.
Meanwhile, a technical presentation on rooftop solar by APEN under the Nagaland Solar Mission, in convergence with the PM-SURYA GHAR: MUFT BIJLI YOJANA, highlighted the benefits of adopting solar energy for household electricity requirements.
The presentation stated that consumers could avail Central and State subsidies of Rs 53,000 for 1 kW, Rs 1.06 lakh for 2 kW and Rs 1.35 lakh for 3 kW and above, subject to the scheme provisions. It was also informed that consumers could choose from 21 empanelled vendors in the State.
The conference also reviewed resolutions of the previous conference and deliberated on its agenda, following which new office bearers were declared by the Search Committee.
