Governor of Nagaland, La Ganesan, visited the Land of Angh and held a meeting with the heads of departments and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) of Mon District on 17th October 2024 at the DC’s Conference Hall in Mon. He was accompanied by Rajesh Soundararajan, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary to the Governor.
In his speech, the Governor expressed his honor at visiting Mon District, known for its unparalleled cultural legacy. He appreciated the richness of the culture and the vibrant people of Mon District, stating that the colorful dances, traditions, and valiant history of the Konyak have always been a source of immense pride for Nagaland. “The majestic wood carvings, the awe-inspiring Aoleang Festival, and the poignant tales of the past embody a spirit that has endured through the ages,” said the Governor. He urged the community to protect and promote this rich culture for the younger generation, encouraging schools to host more cultural days and to engage in discussions about the relevance of culture while innovating it based on our traditional values.
He expressed gratitude to healthcare workers who have shown resilience and courage, especially during the challenges posed by the recent pandemic. Asserting that the health of the people is the foundation of the future, he emphasized the importance of a community rooted in wellness and prevention. Stressing government health-related schemes, he urged the concerned departments to bring these initiatives to the doorsteps of citizens to ensure widespread benefit. He highlighted the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, which aims to eliminate tuberculosis by 2025, five years ahead of the global target, and urged health authorities to enhance awareness of this initiative.
Regarding road construction work under the state Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which is currently underway, he assured that the border areas of the state would soon be connected by good roads, stating that connectivity is the lifeline of progress. “Roads are the foundation for trade and commerce and the pathways to education by which we connect with each other,” he said, encouraging prioritization of sustainable and robust infrastructure that withstands the test of time and weather.
The Governor also urged leaders and educators to renew their commitment to the quest for knowledge, invigorate institutions, inspire students, and invest in the future of the district through education. He mentioned the upcoming second medical college in Nagaland, which will soon serve the state and the country.
Addressing the issue of drug abuse in the state, which he described as a significant menace to society, particularly among the youth, the Governor stated, “It destroys not only individuals but also causes untold misery to families and society.” He called upon civil societies and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts against drug abuse to curb the inflow of drugs into the state and make them inaccessible to the youth.
He urged esteemed citizens to embody the spirit of responsible citizenship by actively contributing to the dialogue and processes that shape the state and the country. Assuring that these challenges are at the forefront of the government’s agenda, he reminded the audience that local communities and civil societies must work hand in hand with the government at both the central and state levels—not only to address immediate concerns but also to lay down a sustainable and progressive roadmap for the state’s future.
Earlier, the Governor was received by officials at the Mon helipad and given a Guard of Honor at Walo Guest House. He was warmly welcomed and presented with Konyak shawls and traditional gifts by the Deputy Commissioner of Mon at the DC’s Conference Hall. Deputy Commissioner Mon, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, chaired the program and welcomed the special guest and attendees. A brief presentation on the profile of Mon District was delivered by the SDO (C) Hq. Mon. The Konyak Union represented concerns regarding the FNT, while the President of the Konyak Students’ Union highlighted issues related to road conditions, medical facilities, and education in Mon District. Rev. Metjen Konyak, Executive Secretary of the KBBB, spoke about the Konyaks, their land, and Konyaks living across the borders.
A brief presentation on departmental activities was also given by NHIDCL, PWD (R&B), CMO Mon, PWD (R&B) Aboi, EE PHED, DEO Mon, and Project Director, RD, Mon.