A grand felicitation program to honour L Hangthing, recipient of the Padma Shri Award 2025 in the field of Agriculture, and now known as Nagaland’s ‘Fruit Man,’ was held on 2 June 2025 at White Hall, Noklak village.
In his address, Padma Shri awardee L Hangthing expressed deep gratitude to the organizers and the community. He recalled his humble beginnings, planting discarded seeds, and the challenges he faced along the way. He dedicated the award to the farmers of Nagaland and the Khiamniungan tribe, stating, “A small appreciation can become the backbone for someone striving to do their best.” He also noted that agriculture has always been practiced by forefathers since time immemorial and has been uplifted with the support of government departments.
President of the Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC), Ngon, said it was a historic moment as it is the first time a member of the Khiamniungan tribe has received such a prestigious civilian honour. He expressed hope that this would pave the way for more achievements in the future.
President of the Khiamniungan Students’ Union (KSU), Shangchiu, asserted that God has blessed the people abundantly, emphasized the importance of cultivating a culture of appreciation, and added that the award should be an inspiration for all.
President of the Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam (KMH), Chongkoi, expressed gratitude to Thang Village elders and church leaders, attributing the accomplishments to their wisdom and prayers.
Representing the district administration, the SDO (Civil), Noklak, Vikhoto Richa, expressed his appreciation to L Hangthing for his resilience and dedication, calling him an inspiration. The Deacon Board of Baptist Church, Thang village, offered a special prayer invoking God’s blessing upon the achiever.
The event was chaired by Longkoi Khiamniungan, Associate Pastor of BCT, while the invocation was proposed by Reverend Chellia. The welcome address was given by Noklak Village Council Chairman Panpan, who acknowledged and congratulated the achievers for bringing laurels not only to Noklak village but also to the community and the Nagas. The vote of thanks was delivered by the Executive Chairman of the TPO, and benediction by Pastor Kai of Kusong Baptist Church.
Meanwhile, Heme Lamthaiu was also felicitated for earning his Doctor of Philosophy degree, and Niamkoi P and Phaam B were honoured for securing 7th and 15th ranks respectively in the HSLC examination 2025 under NBSE.
Dr Heme Lamthaiu congratulated his fellow awardees and expressed appreciation to his teachers and friends who supported him throughout his academic journey. He urged tribal elders to pass on true history and knowledge to the younger generation.
Lamthaiu is the first person from Noklak village to earn a Doctorate degree of Philosophy. His thesis was on the topic “Socio-Economic Formation of the Khiamniungan Nagas,” under the Department of History and Archaeology, Nagaland University.
The event was jointly organized by Noklak Village Council, Thang Public Organization, and Thang Students’ Union.